What is overtraining characterized by?

Overtraining is characterized by performing too much exercise without adequate rest. This phenomenon occurs when an individual engages in training at a high frequency or intensity, leading to physical and psychological stress that exceeds the body’s ability to recover. Over time, this can result in a range of negative effects including decreased performance, increased fatigue, irritability, and potential injury.

When the body doesn’t receive sufficient recovery time between workouts, it may fail to adapt positively to the physical stress imposed through exercise. This lack of recovery can undermine the benefits of training, which typically include improved strength, endurance, and overall fitness. In contrast to a balanced approach to exercise, which allows for adequate rest and recovery, overtraining can lead to burnout and long-term setbacks in fitness progress.

Recognizing the signs of overtraining and ensuring a proper balance between effort and recovery is crucial for maintaining optimal health and performance in any training regimen.