How does the brain work differently at different stages in our lives?

Throughout life our brains undergo more changes than any other part of the body. These can be broadly divided into five stages, each profoundly affecting our abilities and behaviour.

GestationPart 1 of our special feature looks at how a good prenatal environment is needed to make the best out of the growing brain.

ChildhoodPart 2: Life experiences in these early years help shape our emotional well-being, but neglect or harsh parenting may change the brain for good.

AdolesencePart 3: Teenagers are selfish, reckless, irrational and irritable, but given the cacophony of construction going on inside the adolescent brain.

AdulthoodPart 4: The peak of your brain’s powers comes at around age 22 and lasts for just half a decade – but there is an upside to the ageing brain.

Old AgePart 5: Not everyone ages in the same way, but what’s the difference between a jolly, intelligent oldie and a forgetful, grumpy one? And can we improve our chances of becoming the former?

these are common warning signs of overtraining syndrome:

washed-out feeling, tired, drained, lack of energy

mild leg soreness, general aches, and pains

pain in muscles and joints

sudden drop in performance

insomnia

headaches

decreased immunity (increased number of colds, and sore throats)

decrease in training capacity/intensity

moodiness and irritability

depression

loss of enthusiasm for the sport

decreased appetite

increased incidence of injuries.

a compulsive need to exercise

ia. mver.y..sor .r..yinee..i am.ina.rush.pleas eforg.ive   meiknowiama. nas.s holei apalo.gize