How does overtraining work and how can we prevent it?

Overtraining is a condition where the body and mind no longer recover fully between workouts, leading to a downward spiral in both performance and well-being. Athletes often describe feeling physically weaker, mentally exhausted, unmotivated, but a key unanswered question is what comes first: does the brain burn out before the muscles, or do stressed muscles send distress signals that affect mood and cognition? This project seeks to untangle these interactions to understand why some people slip into overtraining while others adapt and thrive. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial not only for elite athletes trying to fine-tune performance, but also—perhaps even more importantly—for the millions of recreationally active people who don’t have access to sports scientists, coaches, or medical teams. Better knowledge of how mental and physical overload are intertwined can guide safer training habits, help individuals recognize early warning signs, and ultimately promote healthier, more sustainable exercise routines for everyone.