Which of the following behaviors can help decrease the risk of overuse injuries?

Taking 3-4 months off from a sport each year is a beneficial approach to reducing the risk of overuse injuries. This practice allows the body to recover from the repetitive stress that occurs during training and competition. By giving the musculoskeletal system time to heal and adapt, athletes can help prevent injuries associated with chronic strain, such as tendonitis, stress fractures, and joint issues.

Regular breaks from a sport can also encourage cross-training or engaging in different physical activities, which may promote overall fitness while reducing the repetitive impact on specific muscle groups or joints. This variability can enhance an athlete's physical resilience and preparedness for when they return to their primary sport.

In contrast, early specialization, increasing practice time weekly without sufficient recovery, and year-round training without breaks can all heighten the risk of overuse injuries, as they can lead to chronic overload and insufficient recovery periods needed to maintain healthy tissues and avoid injury.