"Instead of trying to determine how much exercise we can tolerate perhaps we should try to determine how little we actually need" - Unknown
I love this quote!
It's so easy to fall into the trap of thinking more is better when it comes to hard exercise. More workouts, longer workouts, double workouts.
The classic extreme fitness mindset.
But getting in shape doesn’t have to be an all out suffer-fest.
Healthy fitness involves regular exercise and physical activity that is sustainable and promotes overall health and well-being. It usually involves a balanced combination of aerobic exercise, strength training and flexibility with a priority on safety, joint-friendly exercises, proper technique, sustainable schedules and gradual progressions to prevent injury and burnout.
The benefits are huge and the downsides are minimal.
It’s what the majority of people should be aiming for.
Extreme fitness on the other hand involves pushing the body to its limits or engaging in high-intensity workouts on a frequent, sometimes daily, basis. Usually in pursuit of appearance goals (such as building muscle or burning fat) or obtaining high levels of athletic performance. Common characteristics of extreme fitness include gruelling schedules, risky exercises, high workout volumes, heavy loads and extreme endurance challenges.
Nothing wrong with some hard work.
In fact it’s necessary to stimulate a positive change in your fitness.
But too much intense exercise carries a much higher risk of injury and burnout due to the intense nature and frequency of the routines.
And for most people the risks of extreme fitness simply don’t outweigh the rewards.