[hlnx1]

Many athletes notice that hard sessions feel worse after a draining day. Research on mental fatigue has explored this, although the size and consistency of the effect are debated.

What studies have suggested:

• Prolonged demanding cognitive tasks before exercise have been linked with higher perceived effort and reduced endurance in some experiments
• The physical capacity seems largely unchanged; the effect seems to be mostly on how hard the effort feels
• Some newer studies and reviews have found smaller or less consistent effects than early research
• Decision-making and skill in team sports may also be affected

Detailed article: mental fatigue in sport.

Do you schedule hard sessions differently around demanding workdays?

[hlnx1]

A practical approach for busy athletes: where possible, put key sessions on lower-stress days or earlier in the day, and keep easy or technique sessions for the days that are mentally heavy.

If you must train hard after a long day, a proper meal, a short break away from screens and a longer warm-up can help.

[Author]

Posts