Final answer:
Maximal strength gains are achieved by training each muscle group 2-3 days per week at moderate intensity, utilizing progressive overload principles to continually challenge the muscles, while also ensuring adequate rest to prevent overtraining and injury.
Step-by-step explanation:
Participants experience maximal strength gains training each muscle group 2-3 days per week at moderate intensity. For effective strength training, it is essential to increase the intensity of the exercise continually. Lifting the same weight without increasing the load will not significantly increase muscle size. To achieve continuous improvement and muscle mass gain, an individual needs to progressively overload the muscles, increasing the weights they lift to challenge muscle adaptation.
Variations in individual responses to exercise, due in part to genetic differences, can influence whether someone may be more suited for endurance or strength training. Proper rest between intensive exercise sessions is critical to prevent adverse effects such as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Thus, a balance of exercise intensity, frequency, and rest is necessary for optimal results and avoiding injury.