Increased risk of injury: Overtraining can lead to muscle fatigue, decreased coordination, and impaired judgment, increasing the risk of injuries during exercise.
Decreased immune function: Intense and prolonged exercise without adequate rest can suppress the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Hormonal imbalances: Overtraining can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to decreased production of reproductive hormones, irregular menstrual cycles (in women), and decreased libido.
Insomnia and disturbed sleep patterns: Intense exercise close to bedtime can make it difficult to fall asleep and can disrupt the quality of sleep, leaving you feeling fatigued and groggy.
Mood changes and irritability: Overtraining can lead to an imbalance in neurotransmitters, resulting in mood swings, irritability, and increased anxiety or depression.
Chronic fatigue and decreased energy levels: Overtraining can exhaust the body, leading to chronic fatigue, decreased energy levels, and a feeling of constant tiredness.
Decreased performance: Contrary to the desired effect, overtraining can actually hinder progress in performance. It can lead to decreased strength, endurance, and athletic performance due to the body's inability to recover adequately.
Loss of appetite or increased cravings: Overtraining can disrupt hunger signals, leading to a decrease in appetite or an increase in cravings, which may negatively impact your weight loss goals.