Which of the following is a sign of overtraining syndrome?

Overtraining syndrome is a condition that occurs when an athlete trains excessively without adequate rest and recovery, leading to a range of physical and psychological symptoms. The signs of overtraining often include fatigue, decreased performance, and mood changes.

When an athlete is experiencing overtraining, their body is unable to recover properly due to the continual stress of intense training. This results in a decline in performance, where the athlete may notice a drop in strength, endurance, and overall activity levels. Additionally, mood changes such as irritability, anxiety, and depression can manifest due to the physical stress and hormonal imbalances caused by chronic overtraining. These symptoms are crucial indicators that an athlete is not only overtraining but also may need to adjust their training regimen to allow time for recovery and healing.

In contrast, signs of increased energy and motivation, enhanced performance and strength, and improved sleep patterns suggest a well-balanced training approach with adequate recovery time, which is the opposite of overtraining syndrome. Recognizing the signs of overtraining is essential for athletes to maintain their health and optimize their performance.