How much exercise is too much? As exercise is so good for us, health professionals tend to concentrate efforts on how to get us to get enough exercise. What is discussed much less often which is when we ought to rest and take things easy.

The endorphin rush of exercise is addictive, and people often feel they don’t want to go a day without it. Exercise helps you feel present, or you might use exercise to keep yourself from putting weight on. Whatever the reason, too much exercise is possible. Is it possible to over-exercise?

It is possible to over-exercise?

When too much focus is put on any one part of our lives, there can be a negative impact on everything else. How much equals too much is a more individualised question, though. We know that 45-60 minutes a day is generally recommended, but even as little as 15 minutes a day will reduce mortality risk and extend life expectancy.

That doesn’t automatically mean that if you exercise more than that, you’re over-exercising, but it also doesn’t mean that if you exercise significantly more you may be causing yourself harm. Too much exercise can be addictive, because exercise can be a 'high' and a routine, or ritual that you can become addicted to.

There are many signs that may indicate you’re over-exercising.

Signs you're pushing your body too far

These can include:

• Prolonged muscle soreness;
• Injury;
• Insomnia;
• Fatigue;
• Decreased performance;
• Altered appetite;
• Immune weakness.

How to listen to your body

The list above is straightforward, but how do you hear what your body is telling you?

• Notice what activities you’re leaning to, in your free time. Are you exhausted and just want to sit around and watch tv? That could be a sign of fatigue;
• Think about whether you’re eating habits have changed. Are you snacking constantly? Or are you having a hard time eating a meal?
• Are you feeling strong, or not? Your workouts should make you feel like you’re gradually increasing in strength. If you’re feeling weak, you may be overdoing it;
• You shouldn’t notice aches and pains in your body if you’re healthy, and active. Are you noticing aches and pains more often?
• How’s your mental health? If you’re feeling depressed, irritable, or sad without cause, your workouts may be impacting your moods.

In general exercise is healthy for our minds and bodies, but over-doing exercise isn't healthy. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to think about their likely cause.

It may be a good idea to get tips from the professionals on how much exercise is too much.  Over-exercising isn’t something to take lightly: the results of it, such as a lowered immune system and increased stress hormones, can potentially lead to more significant health problems.

To be our healthiest, moderation is key, and rest plays as important a role in our wellness, as activity does.

Source: https://www.byrdie.com