What is a consequence of overtraining?

Overtraining refers to an excessive amount of training without adequate rest and recovery, often leading to various negative consequences for the body and mind. One of the most common outcomes of overtraining is chronic fatigue, which manifests as a prolonged state of exhaustion that does not improve with standard rest. This fatigue can be both physical and mental, making it difficult for individuals to perform at their usual levels, affecting their motivation, mood, and overall performance.

While increased endurance, improved strength, and enhanced immunity are all positive adaptations associated with proper training regimes, they are not typical consequences of overtraining. Rather, continued overtraining can weaken the body's natural defenses, leading to decreased immunity, and it can hinder any improvements in strength and endurance in the long run. Thus, understanding chronic fatigue as a direct consequence emphasizes the importance of balancing training with recovery to maintain optimal performance and health.