Overtraining Syndrome
Also known as: OTS, Burnout, Overreaching
A condition of decreased performance and fatigue that occurs when training exceeds recovery capacity for an extended period.
FULL EXPLANATION
Overtraining syndrome (OTS) is a maladapted response to excessive training without adequate recovery, resulting in decreased performance, fatigue, mood disturbances, and various physiological symptoms.
OTS develops when training stress chronically exceeds recovery capacity. Early stages (functional overreaching) are reversible with rest, but full OTS can take months to recover from and may involve hormonal and immune dysfunction.
WHY IT MATTERS
OTS significantly impairs performance and health, and recovery is prolonged. Prevention through balanced training and recovery is essential.
HOW TO IMPROVE
Prevent OTS through periodized training, deload weeks, adequate sleep and nutrition, monitoring for warning signs, and respecting recovery needs.
NORMAL RANGES
Warning signs include persistent fatigue, decreased performance, elevated resting heart rate, poor sleep, mood changes, and increased illness frequency.
RELATED TERMS
Training Volume
The total amount of work performed in training, typically calculated as sets x reps x weight.
Cortisol
The primary stress hormone that regulates metabolism, immune response, and the body's fight-or-flight response.
Heart Rate Variability
The variation in time between consecutive heartbeats, a key indicator of autonomic nervous system function and overall health.
Sleep Quality
A measure of how well sleep restores and recovers the body, beyond simple sleep duration.
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Sleep Quality
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