Are You Feeling Low on Energy?

What is Low Energy Availability (LEA)?

Low Energy Availability (LEA) happens when your body doesn’t have enough energy to support normal functions after accounting for calories burned during exercise. It affects both male and female athletes and can occur intentionally or unintentionally.

How it happens:

• Training volume or intensity increases, but calorie intake stays the same

• Attempting to lose weight while training heavily

• Skipping or not planning meals around workouts

• Removing entire food groups (e.g., dairy or gluten) without replacements

Even without an eating disorder, athletes can develop LEA unknowingly.

Signs and Symptoms

LEA can be hard to spot because it can look like fatigue or overtraining. Watch for:

• Inability to adapt to training or maintain workout quality

• Frequent injuries or illness

• Difficulty losing or maintaining weight

• Gut problems

• Sleep disturbances

• Low mood or lack of motivation

Potential Consequences

LEA can affect your body within just a few days and may be acute, intermittent, or chronic. Impacts include:

• Reduced muscle strength and performance

• Slower recovery

• Increased injuries

• Lower coordination and concentration

• Excessive fatigue

• Menstrual cycle disruption in women (RED-S)

• Reduced testosterone in men

What to Do If You’re Concerned

If you suspect LEA:

• Stop training immediately

• Seek professional assessment from:

  • Sports dietitian

  • Sports psychologist

  • Sports medicine practitioner

Early intervention is crucial to prevent long-term health and performance consequences.

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