Fitness Spotlight: Dangers of Over-Exercising During your Workout
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We motivate ourselves with goals to work out regularly and stay fit. But sometimes, that overzealous enthusiasm can cost you in the long run. Working out (even though it is healthy) can lead to problems if it’s done excessively. Muscles need time to repair themselves in between workouts with proper nutrition to fuel your body. So how much is too much for you, and what are the signs that you might be overdoing it?
Chest Discomfort
Any irregular chest pain experienced during exercise should be taken seriously. Not all chest pain is the same – it might feel like burning, stabbing, tightness or achiness. If you’re experiencing chest or heart pain when you work out, you should speak with your doctor as soon as possible.
Dizziness/Vomiting
Vomiting after or during exercise is never a good sign. If this happens, it’s usually a result of over-working your system far beyond the point it can handle. Getting nauseous or light-headed from your workout can indicate that you’re dehydrated or experiencing possible heat exhaustion.
Joint Pain
If soreness is getting in the way of normal daily functioning, like walking to the bus or simply getting out of bed, this is usually a key sign that you need to get some rest. It’s normal for joints to feel sore shortly after an extensive workout, but anything beyond that should be looked at more closely.
Top scientific research institutions are focusing a great deal of their time and resources on developing the science of sports and exercise supplementation. Science has established that particular nutrients can improve muscle size and power, and support performance by improving endurance and mental focus.
Decrease in Performance
Performance in your workout should improve, or at least stay at a consistent level. If you notice your performance dropping or if you feel especially exhausted by your usual workout, you might be over training.
These are just a few guidelines to help keep you on the right fitness track. Now, this is not to say you can’t push yourself for those extra few minutes on the treadmill or go for 20 extra pushups. It’s great to challenge your body, but you also have to listen to what your body is trying to tell you. Also – don’t forget to balance out cardio workouts with proper strength training and other types of workouts, especially stretching (i.e, yoga).
We want to hear from you! What are some signs that you look out for when your working out to be sure you are not overdoing it?
