Or, you might use exercise to keep yourself from having to be concerned about your food intake.

Is It Possible to Over-Exercise?

Yes, it is definitely possible to over-exercise.

woman stretching against silver wall

Stocksy

How much equals too much is a more individualized question, though.

In fact, you may instead be causing yourself harm.

Additionally, too much exercise can move into addiction territory.

woman stretching on yoga mat

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How to hear what your body might be telling you?

Here are some questions to ask yourself.

Byrdie Tip

Taking a rest day doesn’t mean you have to abstain from all forms of movement.

However, sometimes its important to get help from professionals.

Overtraining Syndrome is a relatively new concept, but help for it is available.

There are two reasons that over-exercising may lead to the need to seek professional help.

The second is if youre developing overtraining syndrome.

Physically, youll want to see a medical professional if you experience an injury that isn’t improving.

Alternately, if you undergo a large injury, you shouldnt wait to seek care.

If youre experiencing any of these symptoms, its important to discern their cause(s).

If too much exercise is identified as the culprit, you may wish to get professional help.

Simon HB.Exercise and Health: Dose and Response, Considering Both Ends of the Curve.The American Journal of Medicine.

2015;128(11):1171-1177. doi:10.1016/j.amjmed.2015.05.012

Cleveland Clinic.Signs That Exercise Is Actually Hurting Your Health.

Updated June 29, 2021.

Kreher JB.Diagnosis and Prevention of Overtraining Syndrome: An Opinion on Education Strategies.Open Access J Sports Med.

2017;9(8):912. doi:10.3390/nu9080912

Kreher JB, Schwartz JB.Overtraining Syndrome: A Practical Guide.Sports Health.

2012;4(2):128-138. doi:10.1177/1941738111434406