International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Trainer Practice Exam

Which principle explains that we all undergo stress in three stages: alarm stage, resistance stage, and exhaustion stage?

1. FITT principle

2. GAS principle

3. Recovery principle

4. SAID principle

The correct answer is: GAS principle

The correct response highlights the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) principle, which presents a model explaining how the body responds to stress in three distinct stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. In the alarm stage, the body detects a stressor and initiates a fight-or-flight response, releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol to facilitate immediate physical readiness. This initial reaction prepares the body to confront or flee from the perceived threat. As the stress continues, the body enters the resistance stage, where it attempts to adapt to the ongoing stressor. This phase is characterized by the body's ability to cope with the stress, stabilizing physiological functions and striving for balance while still being in a heightened state of alertness. If the stress persists, the body eventually reaches the exhaustion stage. At this point, the resources needed to combat the ongoing stress are depleted, which can lead to fatigue, decreased performance, and potential health consequences. This principle illustrates the comprehensive pathway the body takes in managing stress and its implications for health and fitness performance. Understanding the GAS principle is vital for fitness professionals as it emphasizes the need for proper recovery and adaptation strategies in training programs, ensuring that clients can progress without succumbing to the negative effects of stress and overtraining.