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and Health
Exercising plays an important role in improving overall health and wellness, but many people can take it too far, leading to a state of overtraining and possible injury. To ensure that you are healthy and avoiding overtraining while working out, keep these tips in mind.
Know when to take a break
Often, the reason behind overtraining is due to an individual neglecting to take regular breaks. While an occasional rest day is a good way to reset, so to speak and prevent burnout, longer breaks are sometimes needed. Most professionals suggest taking a week off from exercise every three to four months as a way to rest the bod and nervous system.
Vary your routine
As well, those who are focused on weight lifting should vary the routine from time to time. This means changing the exercises, reps, or sets that you are doing to avoid plateaus. By doing this, you can create a balance that maximizes the positive effects of your exercise while still respecting your body and its limits.
Check your energy levels
Too many individuals focus on the scale and the physical results of their workouts, when they should be paying more attention to their energy levels. Working out more than your body can handle will reduce the energy you have for the rest of the day, making it hard to concentrate or have enough energy to do the things that you need to do.
Recognize the warning signs
Finally, it is important to recognize the warning signs of overtraining. Any of these symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, insomnia or depression, indicate that it’s time for a break. Those who neglect to do this and instead try to work through the signs are putting themselves at risk for injury, as well as mental exhaustion.
In conclusion, exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but so is respecting your body and the limits thereof. By following these tips and paying attention to how your body is feeling, you can ensure that you avoid overtraining.