Which recommendation is given by AFAA to avoid overtraining?

The recommendation to perform warm-up and cool-down is vital for preventing overtraining because these practices help prepare the body for exercise and promote recovery afterward. A proper warm-up gradually increases heart rate and blood flow to the muscles, which can enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury. It also mentally prepares participants for the workout ahead.

Following exercise, a cool-down helps to gradually decrease heart rate, facilitates recovery, and aids in muscle relaxation. Additionally, the cool-down is an opportunity for benign stretching, which can help maintain flexibility and reduce muscle soreness.

Focusing on warm-up and cool-down routines ensures that the body is not pushed too hard too quickly, which is a common contributor to overtraining. By taking this approach, group exercise instructors can help participants manage their workout intensity and frequency more effectively, creating a balanced exercise program that minimizes the risk of overtraining.