ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What type of training strategy involves lifting to muscle fatigue before decreasing the weight load?

1. Interval training

2. Breakdown training

3. Cardio training

4. Plyometric training

The correct answer is: Breakdown training

Breakdown training is a specific strength training strategy designed to increase muscle endurance and hypertrophy. This method involves lifting a weight until muscle fatigue is reached, at which point the load is decreased to allow for continued exercise. The primary aim of this technique is to further stimulate muscle fibers even when the initial weight becomes too challenging to lift, allowing for additional repetitions and maximizing time under tension. This approach is particularly effective for breaking through plateaus and enhancing muscle growth by pushing the muscles beyond their normal fatigue point. In contrast, interval training focuses on alternating periods of high-intensity exercise with rest, cardio training emphasizes aerobic exercises for heart health rather than muscle fatigue, and plyometric training involves explosive movements rather than sustained muscle fatigue. These distinctions make breakdown training unique and suited specifically for strength development.