What is one potential risk of not monitoring exercise intensity?

Not monitoring exercise intensity can significantly increase the likelihood of injury. When individuals fail to keep track of how hard they are working during their workouts, they may unintentionally push themselves beyond safe limits. This lack of awareness can lead to overexertion, which can strain muscles, ligaments, and joints, increasing the risk of acute injuries like sprains and strains or chronic issues such as tendonitis. Properly monitoring exercise intensity helps ensure that individuals stay within a safe range, allowing for optimal performance without jeopardizing their physical well-being.

In contrast, improved performance, better recovery times, and enhanced muscle growth are typically outcomes associated with appropriate monitoring and training practices rather than risks of neglecting to monitor intensity. Thus, failing to assess exercise intensity can compromise overall safety and well-being, making it an essential practice for anyone engaged in physical activity.