# Impact of digital technology on athletic performance > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/impact-of-digital-technology-on-athletic-performance > Updated: 2026-09-09T09:09:01.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. Research has explored the psychological and physiological effects of digital engagement and tracking technologies on athletic performance. Initial studies published in the European Journal of Sport Science linked social media usage to mental fatigue, which can negatively impact physical endurance and decision-making. For instance, using social media for 20–30 minutes before training may decrease endurance in cycling and swimming, and lead to poorer decision-making in boxers. Subsequent research in Austria focused on digital fitness platforms and tracking technologies. One study on the platform Strava found no significant interaction effects between platform use and variables such as motivation, stress, or well-being. Another study involving hobby and competitive athletes found no significant correlation between attribution styles, intrinsic motivation, and the intensity of data tracking. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-09: Digital fitness tracking and psychological impact on athletes Studies on endurance athletes suggest that using digital fitness platforms like Strava and intensive data tracking do not significantly alter intrinsic motivation or psychological well-being. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/digital-fitness-tracking-and-psychological-impact-on-athletes ### 2026-08-22: Social media use linked to mental fatigue and reduced athletic performance Studies show that social media use can cause mental fatigue, reducing athletic endurance and decision-making quality, particularly when used immediately before physical training. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/social-media-use-linked-to-reduced-athletic-performance --- Cite as: Impact of digital technology on athletic performance. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/impact-of-digital-technology-on-athletic-performance