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I'm currently working out 5-6 days a week, typically 3 days of weights and 2-3 of HIIT/Tabata. My focus is on strength and endurance training (not size). When I feel tired I take a day off...some days I work out twice. My questions is: What signs of over training should I be on the look out for? So far, I'm happy with my progress and overall health.

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For me, its mental sluggishness, tiredness and general lack of energy. When it hits, you'll know about it trust me. But if you feel good with your current programme, there's no need to take more rest. – rmx Apr 14 '11 at 11:56
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Pains that aren't symmetrical across your body. For example, having a pain on your left knee but not your right. – Brent Labasan Apr 14 '11 at 19:20
@Ivo the link you provided has hardly anything to do with the question, you ARE aware of that? – K.L. Oct 29 '12 at 12:35

3 Answers

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Common warning signs of overtraining include:

  • Washed-out feeling, tired, drained, lack of energy
  • Mild leg soreness, general aches and pains
  • Pain in muscles and joints
  • Sudden drop in performance
  • Insomnia
  • Headaches
  • Decreased immunity (increased number of colds, and sore throats)
  • Decrease in training capacity / intensity
  • Moodiness and irritability
  • Depression
  • Loss of enthusiasm for the sport
  • Decreased appetite
  • Increased incidence of injuries.
  • A compulsive need to exercise
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+1, for "compulsive need to exercise" – DavidR Mar 25 at 16:36
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As long as your progress is still good, you should be fine. When it starts to slow, stop, or reverse then you want to consider the possibility that it's because of overtraining.

Another thing to look for is pain that doesn't seem "quite right". It sounds like you've been working out enough to know the difference between normal muscle soreness and something like a muscle pull or other kind of strain. When in doubt, my suggestion is to err on the side of rest if it's a concern about pain.

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@Ardvark-just a quick question on your post - I stopped training (competitive swimmming) for two months due to overtraining. I've been back training now for about three months and have had to stop again due to overtraining (again). Do you think the overtraining never really left in the first place? I am definitely erring on the side of caution, more this time than the last time. Do you think this will be a continuous occurance? Thanks! – Bee Jul 12 '12 at 11:58
up vote 3 down vote

I would have to agree with RMX that high-intensity weight training can cause mental sluggishness.

For me, over-training might mean edgy mood and thoughts racing through my head. This sometimes causes reduced appetite and inability to fall asleep. There are general signs of mental stress. I see these signs in athletes of competitive sports, such as ping-pong or fencing.

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