Final answer:
The shift of weight toward the toes during a lateral step with a mini-band leads to Decreased Glute Activation. This improper weight distribution can negatively affect balance and knee alignment, underlining the importance of keeping the weight centered over the foot.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a client's weight shifts toward the toes during a lateral step with a mini-band, the problem that occurs is Decreased Glute Activation (A). This change in weight distribution can lead to less engagement of the gluteal muscles, which are essential for stabilizing the hips during lateral movements. Additionally, improper weight distribution may challenge the balance and lead to undue stress on the knee joint, potentially causing misalignment or injury. Hence, it is crucial for the weight to be centered over the whole foot to maintain proper hip and knee alignment and to ensure the glutes remain active throughout the movement.