What are the typical first signs of overtraining in athletes?

The typical first signs of overtraining in athletes include fatigue and decreased performance. When athletes push their bodies beyond their capacity to recover, it can lead to a state where their energy levels drop significantly, resulting in fatigue. This fatigue is often accompanied by a decline in performance, even in familiar tasks and routines. Athletes may find that despite their usual training regimens, they struggle to reach their prior levels of strength, speed, or endurance.

Recognizing these signs early is crucial for preventing more serious issues, such as burnout or injury. Other potential symptoms of overtraining may include mood changes, sleep disturbances, and increased susceptibility to illness, but fatigue and decreased performance are among the first indicators that an athlete might experience, signaling the need for rest and recovery.