Which phase is NOT part of the general adaptation syndrome?

The phase that is not part of the general adaptation syndrome is recovery. The general adaptation syndrome (GAS), which was proposed by Hans Selye, consists of three primary phases: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

In the alarm phase, the body recognizes a stressor and initiates a fight-or-flight response, which activates physiological processes that prepare the body to respond to the stressor. The resistance phase follows, where the body attempts to adapt to the ongoing stressor. During this phase, the body maintains a heightened level of alertness and continues to resist the stressor, often at the expense of other bodily functions. Finally, if the stress persists for too long, the exhaustion phase occurs, where the body's resources become depleted, leading to decreased performance and potential health issues.

The recovery phase, while important for overall wellness and return to baseline function, is not formally recognized as part of the general adaptation syndrome. Instead, recovery is often viewed as a necessary component of training and adaptation but does not specifically fit within the framework set by Selye's model. Understanding these phases helps coaches design effective training programs that account for stress and recovery in athletes.