Training too intensely or with excessive volume in the gym is counterproductive and needs to be identified through specific signs.

noli's read

The concept of overtraining or excessive volume is well-documented in sports literature. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews (such as those published in the 'Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research') confirm that beyond a certain threshold, recovery becomes insufficient, which hinders muscle progression and increases the risk of injury. It is scientifically recognized that muscle growth occurs during rest, not during exercise. The 'exaggerated' aspect often lies in the individual definition of 'too much': what is excessive for a beginner trainee may be the necessary volume for an advanced athlete. There is no proof of a universal ideal number of sets or repetitions, as physical stress tolerance is highly personalized. The analysis is therefore scientifically sound regarding the principle of load management, while highlighting that the notion of 'too much' remains subjective.

the sources

1. 1Wang Z, Wang YT, Gao W, Zhong Y 2023
2. 2Bonnar D, Bartel K, Kakoschke N, Lang C 2018
3. 3Hayes LD, Grace FM, Baker JS, Sculthorpe N 2015
4. 4Meeusen R, Duclos M, Foster C, et al. 2013