Is Over-Training sending you into Reverse?

One of the most harmful things that you can do to yourself is Over training! Over training can be detrimental to your health. People often exercise longer and harder so they can get better and improve on what their goals are, but without adequate rest, recovery, and proper nutrition training like this can backfire, and actually decrease performance! That is the last thing you want when you are busting your butt and working so hard to improve! Over training can affect you physically, psychologically, and emotionally. Some of the signs and symptoms of over training are

• Insomnia
• Decreased Appetite
• Unhealthy weight loss
• Weakened Immune System
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Aching joints and muscle soreness
• No enthusiasm
• Lack of energy, Drained feeling

Do not be afraid to take some time off every once in awhile it does the body good! In order to help recovery and recuperate make sure to take a few days to a week off to rest and recover. Make sure to rehydrate as well by drinking plenty of fluids and changing up your regular diet if needed. My favorite resting technique is a Massage; pick a massage that best benefits you and your body, something along the lines of a Deep Tissue or a Sports Massage to help work out all the knots and kinks.  Also, make sure to get plenty of rest and sleep.  Sleep mode is when your body does the building and recovering, in order to properly grow then you must get the correct amount of sleep and rest which can be anywhere from 8-9 hours ideally.   Michael is a 22 year old NPC Men’s Physique Competitor. He earned his IFBB Pro card at Nationals Nov 19 2011. He has also earned 3 nationally accredited personal training certifications and has managed several personal training companies up and down the East coast helping thousands of people reach their fitness goals. His ultimate goal is to inspire and help anyone that he can to reach their maximum fitness potential!