The human body is resilient, but it also possesses limits that must be respected. Overtraining occurs when these limits are exceeded, leading to a cascade of physical and mental symptoms. Here are some key signs to watch out for:
- Persistent Fatigue: Feeling constantly exhausted, even after a good night’s sleep, is a telltale sign of overtraining.
- Decreased Performance: If you notice a decline in your performance, such as struggling to lift weights you used to handle easily, it could be due to overtraining.
- Increased Resting Heart Rate: A consistently elevated resting heart rate might indicate that your body is under excessive stress.
- Irritability and Mood Swings: Overtraining can lead to changes in mood, including increased irritability, anxiety, and even depression.
- Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances: Sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, can be linked to overtraining.
- Recurrent Injuries: Overtraining weakens your body’s ability to recover, making you more susceptible to injuries that take longer to heal.