What is a common risk associated with high-intensity exercise?

High-intensity exercise, while beneficial for improving fitness levels and achieving certain health outcomes, carries with it a heightened risk of injury, especially if participants do not pay attention to proper techniques and recovery protocols. Engaging in vigorous physical activity can place significant stress on the muscles, joints, and connective tissues. Without adequate attention to form, warm-ups, cool-downs, and rest, individuals can be more prone to strains, sprains, and other injuries.

This risk is amplified when individuals push beyond their current fitness levels or engage in exercises that they are not adequately prepared for. For example, someone new to high-intensity training might attempt exercises that their body is not conditioned to handle, leading to injury. Moreover, insufficient recovery time between high-intensity sessions can also contribute to overuse injuries.

In contrast, the other options either describe benefits or situations that are typically not associated with high-intensity exercise. Improved cardiovascular health, when done correctly, is a positive outcome of high-intensity workouts, while lower levels of muscular endurance and enhanced flexibility are generally not expected results of such exercise regimens. Therefore, recognizing the potential for injury underscores the importance of proper training and cautious progression in high-intensity workouts.