What is a consequence of overreaching too early in a distance-running race?

When athletes overreach too early in a distance-running race, they expend a significant amount of energy in the initial phases of the event. This premature fatigue impacts their performance negatively as it leaves them with less energy and stamina to draw upon during the later stages of the race. Distance running requires careful energy management throughout the duration, and overexerting at the beginning can result in a dramatic decrease in performance as exhaustion sets in. Runners may struggle to maintain their pace, ultimately leading to poorer finishing times and overall diminished race outcomes. Recognizing the importance of pacing can help athletes distribute their energy more effectively, contributing to better performance and stamina management.