What is a common sign of overtraining in individuals?

A common sign of overtraining is decreased performance and increased fatigue. This phenomenon occurs because overtraining syndrome results from excessive physical stress and insufficient recovery, leading to both mental and physical burnout. When the body is unable to adapt to the high levels of intensity or volume of training, it can result in a decline in performance, often manifesting as reduced strength, speed, or endurance. Increased fatigue accompanies this decline, leaving individuals feeling lethargic and unable to perform at their usual levels.

In contrast, the other options signify positive responses to training or optimal conditions. For example, increased muscle mass is typically a sign of effective resistance training and adequate recovery, while improved sleep quality suggests that the body is repairing itself and functioning well. Increased energy levels also imply effective recovery and a well-managed training regimen, which are contrary to the symptoms experienced during overtraining. Thus, decreased performance and increased fatigue accurately reflect the negative impact overtraining has on an individual’s physical state.