For progressive overload to be effective, it must be:

For progressive overload to be effective, it must be incremental. This means that increases in the demands placed on the body should be gradual and systematic. Incremental overload involves making slight adjustments to the intensity, volume, duration, or frequency of the exercise in order to continually challenge the muscles and stimulate adaptation.

When overload occurs in small, manageable doses, the body is able to adapt without risking injury or overtraining. This approach also helps in ensuring sustained progress over time, allowing for ongoing improvement in strength, muscle size, and overall fitness. Sudden or drastic changes, on the other hand, can lead to a plateau in performance or even setbacks due to injuries. Therefore, making small, incremental increases is essential for long-term success in a training program.