ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the (dis)balance between training and recovery, the definitions of the terms ‘functional overreaching’, ‘nonfunctional overreaching’, and the ‘overtraining syndrome’, as well as the diagnosis, prevalence, assessment, and prevention of the overtraining syndrome. Overtraining syndrome (OTS) is characterised by a ‘sport-specific’ decrease in performance together with disturbances in mood state. The lack of definitive diagnostic criteria for OTS is reflected in much of the ‘OR’ and ‘OT’ research by a lack of consistent findings. In athletes being diagnosed with OTS, several signs and symptoms have been associated with this imbalance between training and recovery. There have been several proposals as to which physiological measures might be indicative of OR or OTS. One of the most obvious methods for managing fatigue and enhancing recovery is adequate passive rest and obtaining sufficient sleep. The physical demands of intensified training are not the only elements in the development of OTS.
