Structural factors can have a significant impact on athletes’ performance. Some of the key structural factors that can affect athletes’ performance and potential solutions to curb them include:
Access to resources
Athletes with limited access to resources such as equipment, training facilities, and coaches may not be able to reach their full potential. To address this, sports organizations can provide equal access to resources for all athletes, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.
Inequality and discrimination
Athletes who face discrimination or inequality based on race, gender, or sexual orientation may be disadvantaged regarding opportunities and support. Sports organizations can work to address these issues by promoting diversity and inclusion, implementing policies and practices that ensure equal treatment and opportunities for all athletes.
Training and competition schedules
Athletes with demanding training and competition schedules may struggle to balance their athletic pursuits with other aspects of their lives, such as school, work, and family obligations. To address this, sports organizations can provide more flexibility in training and competition schedules and work with athletes to develop plans that allow them to balance their athletic pursuits with other commitments.
Travel and logistics
Athletes who have to travel frequently for competitions may experience jet lag, fatigue, and other physical and mental health challenges. To address this, sports organizations can provide support such as travel accommodations, nutrition guidance, and mental health resources to help athletes manage travel challenges.
Funding and financial support
Athletes who do not have adequate funding or financial support may struggle to cover the costs associated with training, equipment, travel, and other expenses. To address this, sports organizations can provide funding and financial support to athletes, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds or with limited financial resources.