You might be tempted to give your all at the gym to get results faster, but this isn’t always smart. You could end up injured. And who wants that? Here are some telltale signs of overexertion:
Shortness of breath: If you can’t catch your breath after a minute, you’ve probably overdone it. Be mindful of additional symptoms – worsening shortness of breath, swelling in your feet and ankles, high fever, cough and chills, blue lips or fingertips, or wheezing. In any of these cases, you may want to consult with your doctor to make sure it’s not the result of a health issue.
Vomiting: Getting nauseous or light-headed from your workout can indicate dehydration or even heat exhaustion. The latter can be treated with rest in a cool place. But be sure to take it easy, as it could develop into heat stroke, which could mean brain damage, organ damage, and even death.
Extreme soreness: A little soreness is good. It means you’re building muscle. However, if the pain gets in the way of daily activity, it might be time to take a day or two off.
Decrease in performance: In theory the more you work out, the stronger and more resilient you’ll become. But if you can barely finish a workout, this is a signal to take a break.
Mood swings: While exercise can release those feel good endorphins, too much can cause depression, irritability, and moodiness. Find the right balance.
Remember, there can be such a thing as too much of a good thing. Don’t overdo it!