Possible Early Signs of Athlete Burnout: a Prospective Study

Athlete burnout is a concern because of its potential negative consequences for athlete performance and welfare. The aim of the current research was to examine if proposed early signs of burnout measured mid-season were associated with characteristics of burnout measured at the end of the season. Quantitative methods (i.e., questionnaire) were used to identify the level of burnout and perceptions of proposed early signs among male professional rugby union players (n=183) aged 18-36 years (M=25.19, S.D.=2.98). Results indicated significant associations among proposed early signs measured mid-season and athlete burnout measured at the end of the season. Consistent with previous research perceived rugby and money hassles were positively associated with key characteristics of burnout whereas perceptions of adequate social support were negatively correlated with burnout characteristics. In conclusion this study provides further support for the proposed early signs of athlete burnout.