Which statement is true about recreational athletes and weight management?

Recreational athletes can often achieve weight loss while simultaneously improving their performance due to several factors. During their training, these athletes engage in consistent physical activity, which can lead to increased energy expenditure. When combined with a well-structured nutrition plan that supports their training needs, they can create a calorie deficit, resulting in weight loss.

Additionally, exercise can enhance metabolic efficiency, allowing these athletes to utilize fat as a fuel source more effectively. As they lose weight, particularly if it is from body fat rather than muscle mass, they may experience improved performance due to decreased body weight, which can enhance endurance and agility.

In contrast, the other statements suggest misconceptions about the relationship between weight management and performance in recreational athletes. The notion that they cannot lose weight while improving performance ignores the potential for positive adaptations through proper training and nutrition. The idea that they are at a higher risk of energy deficits might not account for balanced dietary intake tailored to their activity level. Lastly, suggesting that they should not focus on weight loss during training overlooks the fact that many recreational athletes successfully manage weight while continuing to improve their skill and fitness levels.