Progressive overload is a key principle in exercise and fitness training where the demands placed on the body are gradually increased over time to continually improve strength, endurance, and overall fitness. ## Core Concepts - Gradual increase in workout intensity - Systematic progression of training variables - Focus on sustainable long-term improvements - Balance between challenge and recovery ## Implementation Methods - Increasing weight/resistance - Adding more repetitions - Extending set duration - Reducing rest periods - Improving movement quality - Increasing workout frequency ## Benefits - Continued strength gains - Improved muscular endurance - Enhanced athletic performance - Reduced training plateaus - Better adaptation response ## Application Guidelines - Start with manageable increases - Monitor recovery between sessions - Track progress using [[Workout Log]] - Adjust based on [[RPE|Rate of Perceived Exertion]] - Follow [[Health/FITT|FITT Principle]] guidelines ## Common Mistakes - Increasing load too quickly - Insufficient recovery time - Inconsistent progression - Poor form/technique - Neglecting deload periods ## Related Areas - [[Health/Exercise|Exercise]] programming - [[Stress|Stress Management]] for recovery - [[Health/Sleep|Sleep]] for adaptation - [[Health Metrics]] tracking > [!tip] Sustainable Progress > Focus on small, consistent increases rather than dramatic jumps in intensity to prevent injury and maintain steady progress.