Are You Overtraining?

The ATP Project Podcast Episode 479

By ATP Science

Think more training means more gains? Think again! In this episode of The ATP Project, Nic and Steve tackle the sneaky side effects of overtraining and low energy availability (LEA). We’re talking hormonal havoc, immune meltdowns, and mental health mayhem—all the things you don’t want as a bonus prize for smashing the gym. Learn how to spot the red flags, dodge the pitfalls, and keep your body and mind in tip-top shape. Recovery isn’t slacking—it’s science!

As always, this information is not designed to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any condition and is for information purposes only. Please discuss any information in this podcast with your healthcare professional before making any changes to your current lifestyle.

  • 00:00:00 - Introduction: Today's topic – when exercise becomes harmful.
  • 00:03:46 - Overtraining Syndrome - The Symptoms
  • 00:07:30 - Symptoms to Watch Out For 
  • 00:13:45 - Personal Stories: Nic shares her journey with overtraining
    00:29:54 - LEA - Low Energy Availability
  • 00:30:25 - LEA Explained: How low energy availability impacts overall health.
  • 00:41:00 - Overtraining Syndrome – What can you do?
  • 00:43:37 - Ask a Naturopath

Clinical References

  1. Ioannidis K, Hook RW, Grant JE, Czabanowska K, Roman-Urrestarazu A, Chamberlain SR. Eating disorders with over-exercise: A cross-sectional analysis of the mediational role of problematic usage of the internet in young people. J Psychiatr Res. 2021 Jan;132:215-222. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.11.004. Epub 2020 Nov 4. PMID: 33189357; PMCID: PMC7614800.
  2. Fahrenholtz IL, Melin AK, Wasserfurth P, Stenling A, Logue D, Garthe I, Koehler K, Gräfnings M, Lichtenstein MB, Madigan S, Torstveit MK. Risk of Low Energy Availability, Disordered Eating, Exercise Addiction, and Food Intolerances in Female Endurance Athletes. Front Sports Act Living. 2022 May 3;4:869594. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2022.869594. PMID: 35592590; PMCID: PMC9110838.
  3. Armstrong LE, Bergeron MF, Lee EC, Mershon JE, Armstrong EM. Overtraining Syndrome as a Complex Systems Phenomenon. Front Netw Physiol. 2022 Jan 18;1:794392. doi: 10.3389/fnetp.2021.794392. PMID: 36925581; PMCID: PMC10013019.

Continue Learning
DietThe Fibre Debate: Separating Fact From Fiction
Mar 25, 2025

The Fibre Debate: Separating Fact From Fiction

Nick and Steve are back on The ATP Project, diving bowel-first into the wild world of fibre! Is it your gut’s BFF or a sneaky troublemaker? From chia seed overloads to short-chain fatty acid shenan...

Read more
DietVegan Diet - Doing More Harm Than Good?
Mar 18, 2025

Vegan Diet - Doing More Harm Than Good?

Thinking about going vegan? Hold your horses (or your lentils)! 🥕 In this episode of The ATP Project, Nic and Steve take a balanced look at the vegan diet’s ups and downs. Whether you’re a full-on ...

Read more
General HealthAcupuncture: Does It Work?
Mar 11, 2025

Acupuncture: Does It Work?

Ever wondered how ancient healing meets modern science? In this episode of The ATP Project, we dive into the fascinating world of acupuncture—unraveling its roots in traditional Chinese medicine an...

Read more
DietAre Grains Making You Fat?
Mar 4, 2025

Are Grains Making You Fat?

Are grains silently sabotaging your health? 🌾 In this eye-opening episode of The ATP Project, Nic and Steve dive deep into the controversial world of grains—uncovering their surprising history, hid...

Read more
IngredientsMagnesium Threonate or Theanine - Which Is Right For You?
Feb 25, 2025

Magnesium Threonate or Theanine - Which Is Right For You?

Join Nic and Steve on The ATP Project as they unpack the powerhouse mineral magnesium and tackle the common confusion between two compounds that sound almost identical but play very different roles...

Read more
DietIs the Carnivore Diet a Miracle or Madness?
Feb 18, 2025

Is the Carnivore Diet a Miracle or Madness?

Nick and Steve dive headfirst into one of nutrition’s most heated debates: the carnivore diet. 🥩 In this episode of The ATP Project, they unpack the science, myths, and real-world stories behind th...

Read more
Gut HealthDebunking "Calories In, Calories Out" | The ATP Project 485
Feb 11, 2025

Debunking "Calories In, Calories Out" | The ATP Project 485

Struggling with weight loss despite counting calories? 🚨 In this episode, Nic and Steve dive deep into why the oversimplified "calories in, calories out" model often fails. Discover how hidden fact...

Read more
BroccoliBroccoli Sprouts: Boost Brain Power, Burn Fat & Detox
Feb 7, 2025

Broccoli Sprouts: Boost Brain Power, Burn Fat & Detox

In this episode of The ATP Project, Steve and Nick dive deep into the incredible health benefits of broccoli sprouts. From supporting gut health and brain function to aiding in detoxification and f...

Read more
AgeingAlzheimer's Disease - Protect Your Brain!
Feb 7, 2025

Alzheimer's Disease - Protect Your Brain!

In this episode, Nic and Steve dive deep into Alzheimer’s disease,  discussing what it is, why it happens, and most importantly, what you can do about it! From the curious history of its discovery ...

Read more
Endurance Sports58 Marathons in 58 Days - with Lachlan Stuart
Jan 17, 2025

58 Marathons in 58 Days - with Lachlan Stuart

Steve talks to Lachlan Stuart as he prepares to run 58 marathons in 58 days. They dive into the challenges Lachlan will face and discuss the physical, logistical, and mental hurdles of such an ende...

Read more

Free shipping over $99* Australia wide

Produced in a state of the art facility in Brisbane, Australia

Always made with natural colours, flavours & sweeteners

Nature lead, backed by science