In this episode we have returning podcast royalty, Ross Byrne, discussing the impact of stress on athletes and the physical manifestations we all experience during both a prep and off season.

We wanted to get Ross back on the podcast because he has an extensive amount of knowledge in relation to the physiological responses to stress but also has experience in dealing with athletes who react very differently to stress; he has seen both the negative and positive impacts stress can have during an athletes prep and had lots to share on what to consider when managing stress during the athlete journey.

We cover:

• Stress, what is it, what is its function within the body, why do we produce it?
• The main drivers of stress during a prep?
• The impact of stress; considerations for managing stress in a prep setting;
• Common symptomology; how much is too much and where would he draw the line when it comes to identifying when stress becomes too much;
• Distinguishing between “normal” or accepted levels of stress within a prep and chronic stress; what symptoms should we be looking out for.
• Effects of stress on the overall look, managing peak week stress.
• External stressors; social media, life and the impact external stress can have on the physique.

And much more.

Stress is an inevitable byproduct of being an athlete but it’s important you’re able to identify what is necessary, vs levels of stress which may take away from the overall process.

As always, we would love to hear your feedback on the episode. Be sure to like, share and subscribe on all platforms.

If you have any questions for Ross, you can find him at @ross_teamprocoach

Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.

Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast
Hosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegarty

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.