What does deconditioning refer to?

Deconditioning specifically refers to the loss of muscle strength and physical fitness that occurs due to prolonged inactivity or immobility. When individuals are inactive for an extended period, whether due to illness, recovery from surgery, or sedentary lifestyle choices, their muscles can weaken, leading to a decline in overall functional ability. This weakening can make it challenging to perform daily activities and increase the risk of falls and injuries.

In contrast to other concepts in the question, such as the development of new skills or the process of strengthening muscles, deconditioning highlights a negative outcome related to lack of activity. Maintenance of muscle and joint flexibility also differs from deconditioning, as it generally involves active engagement in exercises or activities that preserve physical abilities rather than experiencing a decline due to inactivity.