What is the general impact of age on athletic performance?

The impact of age on athletic performance is largely characterized by physiological changes that occur over time. As individuals age, their body undergoes various alterations, including a decrease in muscle mass, changes in cardiovascular efficiency, and a gradual decline in flexibility and agility. These physiological factors can significantly influence overall performance in sports.

Recovery time is also a critical aspect of athletic performance that is affected by age. Older athletes typically require more time to recover from intense training sessions or injuries compared to their younger counterparts, which can impede consistent performance levels.

While experience can enhance certain skills and tactical understanding of a sport (which could relate to improvement in performance), the overarching trend is that the physiological decline, particularly in endurance and strength, overcomes the benefits gained from experience as one ages. Thus, the correct answer reflects the biological realities of aging and their impact on athletic performance.