Which of the following is a risk related to exercise?

• A. Precipitation of a cardiac event
• B. Improved endurance
• C. Increased flexibility
• D. Better sleep quality

Answer: (A)

Exertion can trigger problems in a heart that isn’t healthy, so the risk being tested is the possibility of precipitating a cardiac event during exercise. When the heart’s demand for oxygen rises during activity, a narrowed or diseased coronary artery may not supply enough blood, leading to chest pain, a heart attack, or dangerous rhythm disturbances. That risk makes preparticipation screening and starting at a moderate, gradual intensity with proper warm-up and monitoring essential, especially for individuals with known or suspected cardiovascular disease. Warning signs to stop exercise and seek care include chest discomfort or pain, shortness of breath disproportionate to effort, lightheadedness or fainting, severe fatigue, or palpitations. The other options describe potential benefits of regular activity—better endurance, increased flexibility, and improved sleep quality—which are positive outcomes rather than risks. With appropriate assessment and progression, exercise safety can be optimized while still gaining these benefits.