3 Dangers of Over-Exercising and Overtraining

While regular exercise results in better physical and mental health, over-exercising carries certain risks. You undoubtedly have heard tragic stories of deaths that have occurred during overzealous training. Here are some dangers involved in excessive workouts:

Adrenal Fatigue

Overtaxing the body through too much exercise can produce adrenal fatigue. In this condition, the adrenal gland stops producing adequate amounts of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenalin. Symptoms include fatigue and loss of appetite.

Sleep Disturbances and Negative Moods

When the body undergoes continual stress, the adrenal malfunction that ensues can lead to depression, irritability, and lethargy. The changes in the endocrine system can also cause insomnia, which produces concentration problems during the day. It may even result in an increased risk of suicidal behaviors.

Heart Events

Excessive exercise can damage the heart and trigger cardiac arrest, otherwise known as a heart attack. Noted natural health practitioner Dr. Joseph Mercola reports that a study presented at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress 2010 in Montreal found prolonged vigorous exercise elevates the risk of heart problems seven-fold. Other research shows it can cause atherosclerosis and disorders in heart rhythm as well as enlargement of the heart.

The above problems reveal that the body needs a proper balance of rest and exercise. Without enough downtime, the body can’t repair itself adequately. Too much of this good thing can have grave consequences.

Sometimes the equipment people use to exercise can also cause injuries. For more information, see Overinflated Exercise Balls Pose Risk of Injuries.

If someone you love is in the hospital due to a person or provider’s negligence or carelessness, our D.C. medical malpractice attorneys can help. Call or email us now.

About the Author

Patrick M. Regan, Esq.

Patrick Regan is a board certified personal injury lawyer and a founding partner at Regan Zambri Long. His practice is devoted to helping those who suffered catastrophic injuries in car accidents, truck accidents, Metro accidents, and medical malpractice. Over his nearly 40-year career, Patrick has obtained some of the most significant jury verdicts in the history of Washington, DC on behalf of injured victims. Patrick is licensed to practice law in Washington, DC, Virginia, and Maryland. He received his B.A. at Hamilton College and his J.D. at the Columbus School of Law at the Catholic University of America.