Defining and Managing REDS; more than just ‘overtraining’

Athletes who are passionate about their sport and driven to perform often push boundaries in the quest to achieve specific goals, targets and reach success in their sport. Periods of prolonged overtraining can have ongoing consequences and can often lead to the diagnosis of a syndrome defined as REDs (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport). REDs is characterized by low energy availability, affecting both male and female athletes of all levels and ages. It has adverse effects on various systems and can affect long term health. The quest to achieve athletic potential can come with a cost to bone health, reproductive function and immune function to name a few. Up to 80% of athletes are at risk of developing REDs and early diagnosis is key.