To avoid injury when training a specific muscle too often, the client should do what?

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of allowing adequate recovery time for the working muscle, which is essential in preventing injury and promoting muscle health. Giving the muscle between 48-72 hours of rest provides enough time for repair and recovery, which is critical after a workout that creates micro-tears in muscle fibers. This recovery period allows the body to adapt to the stresses placed on it during training, thus improving performance and reducing the risk of overuse injuries.

For example, when a muscle is subjected to repeated stress without sufficient recovery, it may become fatigued, leading to decreased performance and an increased likelihood of strains or tears. Therefore, implementing rest days, particularly in a well-structured training program, is vital to ensure each muscle group has enough time to recuperate before being targeted again.

In contrast, the other options may not effectively address the issue of injury prevention. Increased protein intake can contribute to muscle recovery but does not substitute for the need for rest. Taking a week off from the gym might be excessive and counterproductive unless deemed necessary by a qualified professional. Wrapping the muscle in an ace bandage may provide temporary support but does not replace the need for rest and can lead to a false sense of security, potentially allowing continued overuse of