Which GAS stage indicates the body no longer tolerates the demands of training and may lead to performance declines?

• A. Alarm
• B. Adaptation
• C. Exhaustion
• D. Recovery

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is how the body responds to repeated training stress over time. In this framework, the first response is Alarm, where the body reacts with a surge of energy and stress hormones. If the stress is manageable and recovery occurs, the body moves into Adaptation (Resistance), becoming better at handling the load. But when stress continues without adequate recovery, the system can’t cope any longer and reaches Exhaustion. In Exhaustion, resources are depleted, fatigue becomes chronic, performance declines, and the risk of injury or illness increases because the body can no longer tolerate the demands. So Exhaustion is the stage that indicates the body has exceeded its capacity to cope with the training, leading to potential performance drops. Signs to watch for include persistent fatigue, decreased performance, ongoing muscle soreness, and disrupted recovery.