Overreaching and Overtraining

It’s important to know the difference between overreaching and overtraining. Learn the difference and how to deal with these issues properly when they arise.

Overreaching is a temporary state attained over multiple workouts when your abilities become depressed below baseline. A normal amount of rest will cause your body to rebound such that your capabilities increase. Overreaching is not a bad thing in itself, but if it continues for long periods, it can become overtraining.

Overtraining is a state that is reached through many workouts where your abilities have been continually depressed. This results in an overall regression of capabilities even after resting. Some Symptoms include sleep disruption, lose of appetite, soreness and increase risk of injury.

Found some diagrams that might help you visualize what I’m say …

As I get older, I find I’m training more than I was when I was younger but in different ways. I read and write more which helps me visualize and clear my perspective, training effects and lessons that I have learned through my life. Upon reflection I realize I spent most of 20’s and 30’s over-trained and early 40’s overreaching. It’s only in the last 5 years that I feel I’ve got the balance just right for myself.