"When Training Backfires"

Interesting and fairly balanced article in the NY Times on the subject of overtraining. I say balanced, because the article both describes the condition of training that is too hard for too long, and also cautions against over-diagnosis of over-training.

When Training Backfires: Hard Work That's Too Hard

Here's a representative quote:

"Overtraining is an unintended consequence of the only known way for athletes to improve — by pushing their bodies and stressing themselves by deliberately going faster or longer than feels comfortable. “Training a little bit beyond your capabilities is the only way to get better,” Dr. Kraus said. “But you have to balance that with rest and recovery. It’s a fine line. Where is that edge and how do you get as close as possible without going over it?”