The principle of progressive overload is best demonstrated in which of the following?

A) a person who gradually loses fitness gains after months of inactivity
B) a person who starts at 20 push-ups and gradually increases to 50 push-ups
C) a person who performs leg extension exercises to improve cycling performance
D) a person who consistently exercises at a steady pace

The principle of progressive overload states that in order to continue seeing progress in physical fitness, an individual must gradually increase the demands placed on their body. Option B best demonstrates this principle as the individual starts at 20 push-ups and gradually increases to 50 push-ups, increasing the demands placed on their muscles and increasing their overall fitness. The other options do not demonstrate a clear example of progressive overload.