In fitness evaluations, which is a sign that a client may be overtrained?

A decrease in strength is a notable sign that a client may be overtrained. When a person is subjected to excessive training without adequate recovery, their body can become fatigued and unable to perform at its previous capacity. This fatigue is often reflected in diminished strength levels. Overtraining can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to fatigue not just physically but also neurologically, impacting performance. Other symptoms associated with overtraining can include decreased endurance, irritability, and increased risk of injury, all of which can stem from experiencing a decline in strength during physical activities.

In comparison, a drop in resting heart rate typically indicates improved cardiovascular fitness rather than overtraining. Improved recovery time is usually a positive outcome of a well-structured training program and not associated with overtraining. Increased motivation is also generally a sign of effective training and engagement, as opposed to the burnout or fatigue commonly seen in overtrained individuals. Thus, the indication of decreased strength is a critical sign to monitor in clients to assess their training levels and recovery needs.