overtraining syndrome

Definition

A state of chronic fatigue and declining performance caused by excessive training without adequate recovery. What happens when more-is-better philosophy meets biological reality.

Example Usage

I thought I was being dedicated training twice a day, but my doctor says I have overtraining syndrome and need to actually rest.

Origin

Clinical sports medicine term formalized in the 1980s as research distinguished it from temporary fatigue.

Fun Fact

Overtraining syndrome can take months to recover from and mimics depression, complete with mood disturbances and sleep problems.

Source: Sports medicine and exercise science

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