ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Which of the following would be the most appropriate initial goal for Betsy's exercise program?

1. Achieve a 25% increase in exercise intensity

2. Increase physical activity to 30 minutes daily

3. Incorporate one new exercise each week

4. Decrease body fat percentage by 5% within three months

The correct answer is: Incorporate one new exercise each week

Choosing to incorporate one new exercise each week as the initial goal for Betsy's exercise program is a strategic approach that emphasizes gradual progress and variety. This goal aligns well with the principle of progressive overload, which is crucial for building fitness over time. By introducing new exercises, Betsy can explore different modalities, enhance her enjoyment, and reduce the likelihood of training plateaus due to monotony. Focusing on a specific and achievable target, such as adding one exercise weekly, allows for consistent, manageable changes that can motivate Betsy and help her develop a more comprehensive exercise repertoire. This goal encourages adaptation without overwhelming her, making it likely that she will stick with the program long-term. Achieving a 25% increase in exercise intensity may be unrealistic early on, especially if Betsy is just starting her fitness journey, as it could lead to burnout or injury. Increasing physical activity to 30 minutes daily is a commendable goal but may be too ambitious if Betsy's current exercise level is low. Additionally, striving to decrease body fat percentage by a specific percentage within a time frame might create unnecessary pressure and detract from the enjoyment and habit-building aspects of a new exercise program. Therefore, incorporating variety through new exercises weekly serves as a solid foundation for ongoing fitness