Final answer:
Progressive overload is critical in resistance training for ongoing muscle adaptation and hypertrophy. It requires the continual intensification of exercise, such as lifting heavier weights over time. Resistance training also strengthens connective tissues and requires adequate recovery periods to mitigate the risk of overuse injuries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle that the demands on the body must be continually increased over time to achieve long-term goals in resistance training is known as progressive overload. This ensures that muscles continue to adapt and grow by increasing the intensity or volume of exercise. For effective strength training, the weights lifted must be progressively increased to challenge the muscles, leading to hypertrophy. This process requires the engagement of fast glycolytic (FG) fibers that enable powerful muscle contractions and are highly involved in resistance exercises.
Additionally, resistance training strengthens the development of connective tissue and tendons, supporting increased muscle mass and preventing damage. As muscles undergo hypertrophy, more myofibrils and sarcomeres are added to muscle fibers, necessitating more protein to facilitate muscle mass gain. It is crucial for individuals engaging in resistance training to allow their muscles sufficient recovery time between workouts to reduce the risk of overuse injuries and to ensure proper healing and growth.