Overtraining

[Fellwar]

First I would like to say I have enjoyed these forums and have read quite a lot. This is something that has been on my mind and decided to make my first post.

After reading several forums and a mountain of threads, I'm left with a nagging question about "overtraining". In so many threads overtraining has become the boogie man. Frequent reply's to various training methods, changes, ideas, is "that sounds good, just be careful not to overtrain". A solid definition of the term would be beneficial to me. Does overtraining mean hitting the same body part more than once a week? Does it mean working out the same body part while it is still sore? Does it mean lifting without getting proper rest/diet? Does it mean taking your muscles to exhaustion with each work out? Does it mean something altogether differnt or is it a combination of these things?

[emartin10]

You should read this thread, it's a great synopsis of overtraining:

http://forums.jpfitness.com/noncgi/u.../t/000002.html

[Fellwar]

I finished reading that thread, it did provide a little more information, but seemed to get pretty bogged down in the debates about stress. I am just going to work on the theory that as long as I have recovered from previous work-outs I shouldn't worry about overtraining.

[emartin10]

I think that's a good idea. Look for the signs from your body:

- Exhaustion
- Trouble Sleeping
- Getting sick very easily
- Sore muscles not recovering well

There are many more, but overall, you just need to listen to your body. It's going to tell you a lot more than some of us can! Good luck!

[Jerry Hill]

seemed to get pretty bogged down in the debates about stress

I hear ya!

Being aware of common pitfalls specific to your individual training goals can help you avoid overtraining.

Dramatic increase in volume, intensity, frequency are usually key factors leading to OT.

Although, one could argue - Overtraining is merly being out of shape.

In Health,
Jerry