How Frequently Am I Allowed To Exercise Without Overtraining?

This is a very common question. The frequency of one’s exercise is left to individual choice and motivation. In your case, you need to be sure about you intend to achieve through regular exercise. Is it weight loss? Is it toning up or building lean muscle? Is it general fitness? For weight loss, a steady and adequate exercise regimen coupled with a sensible diet helps. You should probably train 3 times a week. If you have not exercised for a while, it would be advisable to start slow (or lightly). When in doubt, please consult a qualified physician or a GP.

Once you start the ball rolling and keep at your exercise regimen regularly for a few months, you may definitely want to include an additional session at the gym every week. This will potentially accelerate your weight loss. However, ensure you enjoy at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to help you recover properly.

There are warning signs of over-exercise. Some of the potential red flags are listed as follows:

* You be wary if you perpetually have a lower appetite. Exercise should stimulate a healthy appetite, not eliminate it
* If you suffer from disruptive sleep patterns or bouts of insomnia, it is time to sit up and re-examine your exercise. Adequate exercise actually facilitates sound sleep and not the other way round.
* Do you find your heart pulsating abnormally after sleep? Well, it shouldn’t be. You should feel completely relaxed when you wake up. Be wary especially if you are uncomfortably anxious.
* A perpetual state of nagging lethargy is unfortunately a strong indicator when combined with the above symptoms.

Even when you seemingly suffer from the above symptoms, it need not necessarily be an indication of over-exercising because there could be several other contributing causes. The above list only serves as a guide. It is highly advisable to consult a competent physician at the earliest should you be uncertain.