What is indicated by the term 'breathlessness' in the context of over-exertion?

Breathlessness, particularly in the context of over-exertion, typically indicates an excessive reaction to exercise. When individuals push themselves beyond their physical limits, they may experience breathlessness as the body struggles to meet increased demands for oxygen. This response can signal that the intensity of the workout is too high for their current fitness level, leading to a state where the cardiovascular and respiratory systems need to work harder than usual.

In contrast, a normal response to exercise generally includes a certain level of breathlessness that is manageable and fades upon reducing the intensity. It's also worth noting that a training milestone suggests a level of accomplishment or adaptation, while a sign of improvement would indicate increased fitness levels, where breathlessness should be less pronounced with regular activity. Therefore, understanding the context of breathlessness as an excessive reaction to over-exertion helps fitness professionals to gauge and adjust workout intensities appropriately, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of exercise regimens.