So I’m a high school senior and am finishing up my cross country season currently, with my last planned race being November 20th. This summer I bumped up my mileage quite a bit, from peaking at 55 and averaging 48-50 last track season to peaking at 66 and averaging 58-60 in the early part of this cross country season. Coming off the track season I had improved rapidly and was the fastest underclassman 3200 runner in my state, but I underperformed this season, only finishing 8th at my state championship meet. Throughout the season I've consistently felt physically “off” during races and some of my workouts although nothing specifically was “wrong” with me.
This past week, however, I’ve suddenly felt an excessive amount of fatigue, to the point where I skipped a workout I had planned for today, something I’ve never had to do before. I even experienced some mild lightheadedness. My lackluster performances have also left me burned out mentally and drained of motivation. Given the fatigue and mental burnout would it be best to call it early and take time off now, or should I press on for another few weeks and finish it out? Thanks!
(Also, if it matters I've physically grown a solid amount during the season as well)