Women are more sensitive to overtraining

Studies have shown that women are more sensitive to over training than men. If a woman exercises too hard it can have a negative affect on the hormones and reduce the production of estrogen. Estrogen regulates the menstrual cycle and reduces bone resorption.

Overtraining – Irregular periods

If you train too hard your period may become irregular. Most people who train very hard does even more harm to their body by eating too little calories. Eating too little calories also has a negative affect on the menstrual cycle. To regain a normal menstrual cycle you should cut down on your training and eat more to get your energy in balance. If your period hasn’t come back, you should see a doctor. Several medical studies show that if you skip periods and have below 10% body fat you may have a hard time getting pregnant.

Overtraining – Estrogen and Osteoporosis

Overtraining can cause decreases in estrogen. A lower estrogen level may in turn  lead to osteoporosis, a disease in which your bones become brittle and more likely to break. There have been female athletes at their twenties said to have bones like women who are in their eighties! Remember that the preteen and teen years can affect bone density for the rest of your life and even if it doesn’t show any signs now, unfortunately this may become obvious when you get older.

Slow down during menstruation

You are more likely to get overtrained if you have menstruation, an ongoing illness or if you don’t eat enough and are overworked. Three to four training occasions a week is enough for most people.