National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) certification Practice Exam

The correct stage for the gradual inclusion of repeated sprint training is Stage 3, which is characterized by the development of anaerobic power and endurance as well as the improvement of performance in high-intensity efforts. This stage involves the addition of higher-intensity intervals and sport-specific training, which naturally includes repeated sprint training.

In Stage 3, the focus shifts from primarily improving aerobic capacity to enhancing an athlete's ability to sustain and recover from repeated bouts of high-intensity work. Repeated sprint training specifically helps athletes develop muscular endurance and power over short distances, crucial for sports that require quick bursts of speed.

Earlier stages, such as Stage 1 and Stage 2, focus more on building a solid aerobic base and increasing overall endurance through steady-state cardio, which is not suitable for high-intensity sprinting activities. Stage 4 would involve advanced training tactics and adaptations after sufficient groundwork has been laid in earlier stages, but it is not the stage where the gradual inclusion of repeated sprint training should first occur.