What strategy is least likely to increase adherance in a new client?

New clients are particularly vulnerable to early dropout when exercise intensity is set too high, as this leads to excessive muscle soreness, perceived exertion, and negative associations with exercise. Adherence research consistently shows that starting at a moderate, manageable intensity builds positive experiences and long-term commitment, whereas high intensity early on is a primary driver of program abandonment.

Minimizing muscle soreness and injury reduces barriers and negative experiences, which supports rather than undermines adherence in new clients.

Individualizing goals and objectives increases personal relevance and ownership of the program, which is a well-supported strategy for improving adherence.

Using step counters and other outcome measures provides objective feedback and a sense of progress, both of which are positively associated with continued engagement and adherence.