In the improvement stage of exercise, how much should the duration of exercise increase weekly?

In the improvement stage of exercise, a weekly increase of up to 20% in duration is regarded as optimal for fostering continued progress while minimizing the risk of injury. This incremental approach allows the body to adapt to the increased workload safely. Gradual increases in exercise duration are essential for the development of endurance and strength, allowing physiological adaptations without overwhelming the body.

Increasing exercise duration too drastically can lead to fatigue, burnout, and a heightened risk of injury, which can derail fitness goals. A 20% increase strikes a balance, promoting improvements in fitness levels while recognizing the importance of recovery and adaptation. This principle is grounded in the concept of progressive overload, a fundamental tenet in exercise physiology that applies the gradual increase of training stress to stimulate improvements in performance.

Other options that suggest a higher percentage increase or no limit at all do not encourage a sustainable or safe approach to exercise progression, emphasizing the importance of managing workload responsibly.