The theory of overload

zieak ♦ July 11, 2012 ♦ Leave Your Comment

I have been reading about principles of fitness.  One theory that applies and is discussed in the text I am consuming is that of overload.  The idea is that the body needs to be overloaded to improve.  If the muscles are not stressed they do not improve.  It is logical.  By making the body work harder – whether lifting more weight or going a farther distance than normal then it begins to adapt to the increased stress.

I have become interested in how the overload theory also relates to mental health.  Sure, some people are predisposed to cope with stress in their life better than others.  They may just be more laid back naturally.  But dealing with stressful situations in life – be it work, relationships, or just day-to-day activity would enable the brain to deal with stressful situations better over time.  So the theory goes. 

I like thinking it works.  Sort of a “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger – as long as it is more stressful than normal.”  It is nice to look back on life’s lemons and treat them as something that shaped my current ability to deal with difficulties in life. 

Don’t get me wrong… I have lived a privileged life.  I an never struggling at the bottom of Maslow’s needs seeking the necessities of life.  But most days I feel well adjusted.  Especially with my coping mechanisms available to me!