Overtraining

Overtraining is a physical, behavioral, and emotional condition that occurs when the volume and intensity of an individual's exercise exceeds their recovery capacity. They cease making progress, and can even begin to lose strength and fitness. Overtraining is a common problem in weight training, but it can also be experienced by runners and other athletes.

Symptoms and signs

Overtraining can be characterized by a number of symptoms including:

• Persistent muscle soreness
• Persistent fatigue
• Elevated resting heart rate
• Reduced heart rate variability
• Increased susceptibility to infections
• Increased incidence of injuries
• Irritability
• Depression
• Mental breakdown

Causes

The primary cause of overtraining is an imbalance between training and recovery, training stress and life stress, in which an individual's training intensity exceeds their body's ability to recover.

Prevention

Prevention of overtraining can be achieved through periodization, proper nutrition, and quality rest.

Treatment

Treatment for overtraining typically involves a period of rest and recovery, followed by a gradual return to training.

See also

• Exercise physiology
• Sports medicine
• Physical fitness
• Exercise addiction