What is "Over-Reaching" in the context of training?

"Over-Reaching" refers to a specific training strategy used to enhance athletic performance by temporarily increasing training intensity or volume beyond normal levels. This approach is designed to push the limits of the athlete's endurance and strength, which can lead to performance improvements once the body is allowed to recover fully.

Unlike regular training, which aims to steadily build fitness through manageable progression, over-reaching is intentionally harsh and is employed to spark adaptations that may otherwise stall, hence helping athletes to break through performance plateaus. The key aspect of this technique is that it should not lead to prolonged fatigue or burnout, as it is a short-term strategy; the athlete must follow it up with adequate recovery to take advantage of the gains made.

The other options present different concepts and are not directly related to over-reaching. For instance, goal-setting is a method to define objectives, but it does not involve the same intensity adjustments as over-reaching. Injury prevention strategies focus on techniques to avert injuries rather than intensifying training. Lastly, cool-down exercises serve to help the body transition after workouts and do not pertain to the strategic intensity adjustments that define over-reaching.