Why might regular monitoring of fatigue levels be important for runners?

Regular monitoring of fatigue levels is crucial for runners primarily to prevent injuries. When fatigue sets in, a runner's form can deteriorate, and their body becomes less able to absorb shock and manage the stress of running. This increased strain can lead to overuse injuries, such as shin splints, stress fractures, or tendonitis. By keeping track of fatigue, runners can better manage their training loads, ensuring they allow adequate recovery time and avoid pushing themselves into a state of overtraining. This practice promotes long-term athletic longevity and helps maintain overall health, making it a fundamental aspect of a runner's training regimen.

While increasing running speed, changing running form, and enhancing competitive performance are important aspects of training, these factors may suffer if fatigue is not monitored and managed properly. A runner who is fatigued may not be able to improve their speed or performance effectively, and poor form can increase the risk of injury, highlighting why monitoring fatigue is vital.