ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following are common signs of overtraining?

1. Weight loss, increased appetite, better performance

2. Injury, increased resting heart rate, fatigue

3. Improved strength, quicker recovery times, enhanced mood

4. Increased energy levels, better sleep, higher motivation

The correct answer is: Injury, increased resting heart rate, fatigue

The correct answer identifies several recognized signs of overtraining, which can adversely impact an individual's physical and mental performance. Notably, injuries can arise due to overuse and insufficient recovery, as continuous stress on the body without adequate rest leads to physical breakdown. An increased resting heart rate is another common indicator; it reflects the body’s struggle to recover and adapt to elevated levels of training stress. Fatigue, both mental and physical, is a prominent symptom that results from the cumulative stress of overtraining, causing a decline in performance and motivation. In contrast, the other options list signs that are typically associated with positive training adaptations rather than overtraining. Weight loss and enhanced performance would suggest effective training, while improved strength, quicker recovery times, and enhanced mood are indicators of positive progress in a training program. Similarly, increased energy levels, better sleep quality, and higher motivation are signs of a well-balanced training regimen and adequate recovery, countering the effects typically seen in overtraining.