What is the best plan for an athlete who has been diagnosed with overtraining syndrome?

When an athlete is diagnosed with overtraining syndrome, the best course of action involves a strategic adjustment to their training regimen that allows for recovery while still maintaining some level of physical activity. The chosen plan, which involves being active but not in the athlete's specific sport and reducing overall activity by half, is effective because it recognizes the need for active recovery.

This approach allows the athlete to engage in alternative forms of exercise that are less intense or demanding, which can promote recovery and help alleviate the negative effects of overtraining. By not engaging in their chosen sport, the athlete minimizes the risk of exacerbating their condition, as the stress and strain related to specific skills and competition can be detrimental during recovery.

The reduction in activity levels by half is also critical; it encourages sufficient rest and recovery for the body without completely halting all forms of movement, which can lead to stiffness or a decline in fitness levels. This method recognizes the importance of balance in training and recovery, supporting the athlete’s long-term health and performance goals.

In contrast, completely stopping all activities may lead to physical setbacks or psychological impacts due to inactivity, while maintaining current training without changes ignores the need for adjustment in light of the overtraining diagnosis. Gradually increasing training intensity,