Fitter Radio Triathlon Podcast #610 - IM703 Geelong. Mental Fatigue Impairs Physical Performance
Mar 24, 2025
Dr. Kristy Martin, an Associate Lecturer at the University of Canberra, dives into the intriguing link between mental fatigue and physical performance. She discusses how mental strain can significantly impact an athlete's output, emphasizing the need for mental wellness alongside physical training. Listeners will also discover tips for managing training when feeling mentally exhausted. The conversation gives insight into recent triathlon performances, including impressive showings at IM703 Geelong and the indoor triathlon racing from Lievin.
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Emma Jeffcoat's Mental Fatigue Story
- Emma Jeffcoat experienced significant mental fatigue and grumpiness after a long travel and race period.
- Her experience highlights the emotional and mental stresses athletes endure besides physical challenges.
Mental Fatigue Impairs Physical Performance
- Mental fatigue can cause physical performance to drop without any actual muscle fatigue.
- The brain's energetic cost can make physical efforts feel harder and reduce endurance.
Perception of Effort and Fatigue
- Mental fatigue raises perceived effort, making tasks feel harder from the start.
- This causes earlier withdrawal from exercise despite unchanged physiological markers.