Which of these scenarios demonstrates an increase in challenge through lever adjustment?

The scenario of lengthening the distance of a cable during a row demonstrates an increase in challenge through lever adjustment because it directly alters the mechanical advantage involved in the exercise. By extending the cable, the user increases the lever arm, which increases the resistance and workload required to perform the rowing motion. This adjustment changes the dynamics of the movement, making it more challenging as it requires greater force to overcome the increased distance and resistance.

In contrast, moving from a seated to a standing position can certainly add challenge due to the engagement of additional muscles and balance requirements, but it does not fundamentally alter the mechanical aspects of the exercise in terms of lever adjustment. Reducing the weight used in an exercise and using lighter resistance bands both decrease the intensity and challenge of the exercise rather than increasing it, as they involve using less resistance and thus less effort is required from the muscles. Therefore, lengthening the distance of the cable stands out as the option that clearly represents a change that increases the challenge through a lever adjustment.