What is a common effect seen when an athlete trains too hard without proper recovery?

When an athlete trains too hard without incorporating proper recovery, a common effect is indeed an increased risk of injury. This occurs because intense training can lead to fatigue and overuse of muscles, joints, and connective tissues. Without adequate recovery, the body does not have the opportunity to repair and adapt to the stress of training, ultimately increasing the likelihood of strains, sprains, and other types of injuries.

Additionally, overtraining can result in imbalances in the body's biomechanics, which further amplifies the risk of injury during both training and competition. It is crucial for athletes to listen to their bodies, recognizing signs of fatigue and allowing sufficient time for rest and recovery to promote optimal performance and minimize the chance of injuries.