Can you do too much exercise? Read on to find out the truth
- Health Results
- Aug 8
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 15
The Hidden Dangers of Over-exercising: 5 Key Risks to Be Aware Of
While regular exercise is crucial for good health, too much can be harmful.
Here are the top 5 ways excessive exercise can negatively impact your well-being:
Increased injury risk: Overtraining can lead to muscle strains, stress fractures, and tendon injuries. Your body needs time to recover between workouts.
Cardiovascular strain: Extreme endurance exercise may cause structural changes in the heart and large arteries over time. This can potentially lead to arrhythmias or other cardiac issues.
Hormonal imbalances: Excessive training can disrupt hormone levels, affecting metabolism, muscle growth, and overall health.
Weakened immune system: Overtraining may suppress your immune function, making you more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Mental health impacts: Too much exercise can lead to mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or depression.
It's important to note that the ideal amount of exercise varies for each person.
Generally, moderate exercise of 7.5 to 15 METs (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) per week is considered beneficial.
How much is that ?
1 MET is sitting on the couch doing nothing
Riding a bike leisurely may be 3 METs so 15 divided by 3 METs = 5 hours of light bike riding a week.
Walking would be a little more maybe 6-7hrs.
Obviously high intensity would be a lot less.
Going significantly above or below this range may not provide additional health benefits and could potentially be harmful.
Regarding heart attacks during exercise, it's crucial to understand that these events are usually due to underlying cardiovascular issues, not the exercise itself.
Undiagnosed coronary artery disease, plaque ruptures, or electrical disturbances in the heart can be triggered by intense physical activity. However, regular moderate exercise actually reduces the overall risk of heart problems.
To stay safe, listen to your body, allow for proper rest and recovery, and gradually increase your exercise intensity.
If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms during exercise, stop immediately and seek medical attention.
Remember, balance is key. Exercise should enhance your life, not dominate it.
Stay healthy and active! Stay happy and healthy
