Progressive overload means?

• A. Reducing volume over time.
• B. Maintaining the same training load.
• C. Gradually increasing training demands.
• D. Only increasing rest days.

Answer: (C)

Progressive overload is about steadily increasing the demands placed on the body to force adaptation. Over time you increase training stress—lifting heavier weights, doing more repetitions, adding sets, increasing frequency, or adjusting tempo—to create a new challenge for the muscles and nervous system. That’s why gradually increasing training demands is the best description. Reducing volume, keeping the same load, or only adding rest days wouldn’t provide the ongoing challenge needed for adaptation.