What's the Deal with SJP's Veiny Arms? 5 Signs You Could be Overtraining
One of the less lovely genetic traits I'm set to inherit: Flabby arms. Thankfully, pushups and other upper-body strength training have kept the wing flaps away so far, but recent pap pics of Sarah Jessica Parker's veiny arms got me thinking: At what point can take working out too far, from an aesthetic and a health standpoint?
Similar photos have surfaced of Angelina and Madonna's guns. Now, I've got no problem with girl muscles. In fact, I think they're awesome. But, girl muscles + stick-like arms + bulging veins = not healthy, IMO.
The most common explanations for crazy-veiny arms are: Genetics, low body fat, or too much exercise. In SJP's case, it's likely all three. She's naturally petite and has admitted to keeping a strict diet and exercise regimen. (Plus, she totes around twins. Hello biceps!) But when you cut calories and work out like crazy, body fat goes poof and veins become overly prominent. According to docs, that can be a red flag that you're overdoing it at the gym.
5 Less Freaky Signs You're Overtraining:
1. You're run down for days after a workout. What post-workout energy surge? Everything hurts and you just want to crawl into bed.
2. Insomia. Despite being completely wiped, you toss and turn all night.
3. Irregular periods. Shoot, when WAS the last time Aunt Flow came to town??
4. Moodiness. Most of the time, a workout is an endorphin-producing happy pill. But you're in a perpetually foul way. Unclear whether this is the case? Ask your Sig O.
5. More sick days than sex days. Too much exercise can weaken the immune system and douse your desire to get busy. (Sig O takes another hit, boo.)
Have you ever pushed yourself too hard?
--Jenny Everett
Image via Bauer-Griffin
MORE FROM SELF:
