Integrated Personal Fitness Practice Exam 2025 - Free Personal Fitness Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

High-intensity training has a significant impact on metabolic rate, particularly through the effect of excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), commonly referred to as the "afterburn" effect. After engaging in high-intensity workouts, the body requires additional oxygen for recovery, which leads to an increase in energy expenditure even after the exercise session has concluded. This elevated metabolic rate can remain higher for several hours, and in some cases, even up to 24 hours post-exercise.

This increased energy expenditure contributes to a higher resting metabolic rate, as the body works to repair muscles, replenish energy stores, and maintain elevated heart and breathing rates. Therefore, choosing the option that states high-intensity training increases resting metabolic rate post-exercise reflects the true physiological adaptations that occur as a result of such training.

Contrarily, other options do not capture this effect accurately. A decline in resting metabolic rate is not typically associated with high-intensity training, nor is there a lack of effect on metabolic rate. Additionally, while high-intensity training does influence metabolic rate during the workout, its significant impact extends well beyond just the duration of exercise, making the understanding of post-exercise metabolic effects crucial.