We all have had our bad race or practice. However, if your performance suffers over a long period of time, then you may have overtrained. Although there are no clear indicators of overtrain, a great way to assess if you are training properly is either by analyzing your season performance or looking at your own facial expression - are you smiling?

Many of us play sports because we enjoy the challenge and camaraderie. However, in a competitve sports world, many athletes have put pressure on themselves and train obsessively. Although putting stress on your muscles and lungs is the only way to achieve higher fitness level, not allowing enough recovery can backfire in your effort to be better.

Besides looking at my time, I also like to assess my training results by looking myself in the mirror. I always ask myself if I have given my best effort and come out happy after every training or race. I had experienced overtrain when I no longer had the desire to wake up and run (bike, or swim). I had coped with overtrain by going out with my friends, sharing our dining experience, or discussing books we have read. I sincerely recommend that you balance your training schedule and leisure activites. Overtrain will cause you to lose interest, then steer you  away from exercising…like a domino effect.

Guinea Pig says…keep on smiling!