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Unexpected side-effects of working out

September 02, 2021

While we all know that working out can have us feeling our fit and healthy best, you may be less familiar with some of the negative side effects of strenuous exercise, some of which can end up being quite serious. If you begin to notice that you’re showing signs of exercise-induced damage or fatigue, it’s time to listen to your body and rest up. Read on to learn some of the telltale signs that indicate you may be overworking yourself in the gym.

Decreased performance

If you notice a dip in your performance while working out, this can mean that you’re pushing your body’s limits. This is especially common when doing aerobic exercises like cycling, swimming and running.

Drop in energy

If that familiar post-workout high has been replaced by feelings of low energy and fatigue, your body may be asking for a much needed rest.

Poor mental health

You can have too much of a good thing. If you are exercising for more than 7.5 hours a week, you could be prone to poor mental health.When anything takes up an inordinate amount of time, it can have a negative impact on your mental health.Depression and anxiety are common symptoms of this. An overstressed body could also lead to irritability, anger, and fluctuations in mood.

Sleeplessness

Moderate exercise can help you achieve a night of blissful sleep. Thus, strenuous exercise beyond the usual for a given individual can activate stress symptoms, including the release of cortisol in the evening and adrenaline. Too much exercise can have you tossing and turning all night.

Aches and pains

Persistent soreness can appear when you don’t give your muscles time to recover. This can seriously hamper your everyday activities, besides making you feel under the weather.

Heart problems

Did you know that those with existing heart problems are at high risk of a heart attack or stroke if they overdo high intensity exercise?Although exercise is important for people with heart issues, it’s vital to find the right balance.If you’re not certain how to go about this, consult a personal trainer who can give you some good advice that does not over stress your body and compromise your health.

Joint problems

Running or overtraining with heavy weights too many times a week often results in joint injuries. In particular, this kind of overtraining can result in osteoarthritis in later life. This occurs when the cartilage between two joints wears down so the bones rub together, resulting in swelling and stiffness.

Missing periods

Missing your period – also known as amenorrhea – can be brought on by training too hard. Although it’s not a disease, it’s important to inform your doctor of any changes so they can decide on the best course of action.

High resting heart rate

When your heart is under too much stress, the rate at which it beats rises, leading to an increased resting heart rate. An increase from your normal rate could mean that you are overworking yourself. A good idea is to monitor your heart rate in the morning to take note of any changes, and enforce a period of rest if it rises by too much.

Ensure your oral health routine is strong

Over-exercising can also have damaging effects on your teeth. When you are working out, you may find yourself breathing more heavily with your mouth open, leading to a lack of saliva and a dry mouth. This is the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive – potentially leading to a higher chance of developing gum disease and tooth decay.

Here at Floe, we’re determined to help people build rock solid oral care fundamentals over time. We believe the secret to a happy and healthy mouth is having the right tools to start with.

To help you get there, our subscription box includes:

  • A new Curaprox toothbrush – so you don’t have to remember to replace it.
  • Dawn whitening and Dusk anti-cavity fluoride toothpastes.
  • Activated charcoal floss – to clear plaque where the brush can’t reach.

Working out is great, but dental emergencies are not. By subscribing to Floe today, you’ll be giving yourself the gift of a healthier mouth – no matter how often you exercise.

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