McCullum blames overtraining for Ashes loss; expert: Rest is crucial

• Brendon McCullum blames overtraining for England's Ashes defeat, citing overpreparation before the Brisbane Test.
• England lost two Tests to Australia, with McCullum suggesting intense training days negatively impacted player freshness and headspace.
• A fitness trainer highlights overtraining risks: chronic fatigue, injuries, hormonal imbalances, weakened immune system, and mental burnout.
• Signs of overtraining include persistent muscle soreness, elevated heart rate, exhaustion, sleep issues, irritability, and reduced performance.
• Adequate recovery is crucial for muscle repair, energy restoration, injury prevention, hormonal balance, and overall performance.

Why It Matters: Overtraining harms performance and health, emphasizing rest's crucial role.