Over Practice, is it possible? You bet!

Playing the piano is a physical activity. Overuse syndrome is real and not uncommon problem. According to a CBC article it is the number one cause of young students dropping out of music programs in university. 

https://www.cbcmusic.ca/posts/18039/musician-injuries-health-awareness-music-schools

For adult music students burnout among the driven and enthusiastic is not uncommon. The middle aged golfer Dan, invented the Dan plan. His plan? He would practice golf for 10,000 hours and go pro. 

http://www.golfwrx.com/437894/what-happened-to-the-dan-plan/

His body let him down in the end. 

So, what you do you do if you recognise yourself in these stories?

1. Pace yourself, enjoy the journey of learning. This will take time. Someone once said, "its a marathon, not a sprint". 
2. Learn how to practice. This will make a big difference in your progress and satisfaction along the way. I suggest reading the book the Musicians way. Find it on line for sale. 
3. If you are a coach potato, think about getting into shape through sleep, exercise, nutrition, and a robust social life. Playing music is an athletic event. Remember it took you years to get into the shape you are now, it will take some time to get back to being trim and strong. 
4. Consider working on the following time breakdown: 50% playing, 50% listening to great music.
5. Record yourself and listen back during rehearhsal. Lower reps, effective and immediate feedback.
6. Stretch before and after practice. A good physiotherapist can equip you correctly here. 

Cheers, 

David