Why You Should Avoid Working Out For Longer Durations

In the pursuit of health and fitness, individuals often engage in regular exercise to maintain well-being, achieve weight loss, enhance sports performance, or build muscle. While exercise is universally recognised as a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle, the adage “too much of a good thing” holds, even in the field of fitness. Tejas Rajputran, head of fitness coaching and a sports science lecturer, sheds light on the potential negative effects of prolonged exercise sessions, cautioning against pushing the body beyond certain limits.

In the contemporary era, the fitness craze has driven many to spend extended hours in the gym, driven by a desire for quick results and an overall improvement in physical health. Rajputran notes a rising trend in individuals dedicating long hours to daily workouts, fueled by an eagerness to reach their fitness goals expeditiously. However, he emphasises that the belief that longer durations of exercise equate to faster results is a misconception.

Rajputran specifically highlights the risk associated with exercising for more than two hours daily, pointing out that such prolonged sessions place an excessive load on the heart. The heart, a vital organ responsible for pumping blood and oxygen throughout the body, can become strained and overworked when subjected to extended periods of intense physical activity. This increased cardiovascular demand may lead to fatigue, weakness, and heightened susceptibility to injuries.

Athletes and bodybuilders, driven by diverse fitness objectives, often engage in a variety of exercises, including cardio and aerobic activities. Yet, despite the diverse approaches, the overarching caution remains—working out excessively, especially beyond the two-hour mark, carries inherent risks. The human body has its limitations, and overtraining can result in detrimental consequences.

Extended workout sessions not only elevate the risk of physical fatigue and weakness but also pose potential dangers to heart health. The heart, a muscle in its own right, requires adequate recovery time. Prolonged exertion without sufficient rest intervals can compromise the heart’s ability to function optimally, placing undue stress on this vital organ.