Exaggeration in any aspect of life—even in activities that are generally beneficial—can be harmful, and exercise is no exception. One consequence of excessive exercise is overtraining syndrome. This occurs when the intensity and volume of training are too high, and the body is unable to recover or adapt. Overtraining syndrome can lead to a range of physical and mental issues that impair athletic performance. It is typically identified by a combination of symptoms rather than a single sign.
Common causes of overtraining include insufficient rest between training sessions, high training volume and intensity, or a sudden spike in overall workload. Symptoms may include persistent fatigue, disrupted sleep, loss of appetite, changes in eating habits (either overeating or undereating), digestive issues, and a weakened immune system. Overtraining significantly increases the risk of injury. Preventive strategies include proper nutrition, sufficient sleep and rest, effective stress management, and a gradual progression in training intensity and volume.
To treat overtraining, athletes should prioritize proper nutrition, monitor and reduce stress levels, ensure quality sleep, and temporarily decrease training volume and intensity. With time and care, the body can recover and return to normal functioning.
