Announcement
December 3, 2024
December 2024
Fitness Myths Debunked
There are fewer than 31 days until 2025. Leave outdated fitness advice in the past and move into the new year with clarity. Here are just a few common fitness myths.
Myth: Cardio is the only way to lose weight – One of the biggest fitness myths is that cardio, and cardio alone, results in weight loss. Cardio does have many health benefits, such as burning calories and improving cardiovascular endurance, but it is only one component of a weight loss program.
In addition to cardio, two important elements to consider when pursuing weight loss are healthy eating and strength training. There is no such thing as “canceling out” a terrible diet with exercise. Nutrition and portion control and vital for weight loss and overall health. Strength training aids in weight loss because muscle burns more calories at rest than fat. Building more muscle changes body composition which can change your appearance even if the scale doesn’t move very much.
Myth: More hours in the gym is better – What’s better, two hours in the gym or 30 minutes? The ideal amount of time spent working out depends on your body and your goals, but for most people, it’s not necessary to make working out a part-time job. Consistency and the quality of the workout are what really matter. This is one reason why HIIT classes are so popular – participants can get an effective, full body workout in just 20-30minutes.
Similarly, many people subscribe to the “no pain, no gain” mentality. Exercise should not physically hurt, and if it does, you may be at risk for an injury. Being exhausted at the end of a workout does not necessarily mean a workout is better than one where you feel energized for the rest of your day.
Myth: Ab workouts alone create six-packs – All the crunches in the world cannot combat excess body fat. Spot training is not real, meaning that daily ab workouts will not reveal a six-pack if there is excess abdominal fat. However, that does not mean ab workouts should be skipped. A strong core is essential even if you are carrying extra weight.
Myth: Social media is reality – Perhaps the most pervasive modern fitness myth of all is that social media influencers are an accurate portrayal of health and fitness. Influencers are paid to endorse products. The latest protein smoothie advertised by your favorite Instagram celebrity is likely not the reason they are fit. Some social media influencers even rely on plastic surgery to achieve a certain look. Assistance reaching your individual fitness goals is better found in a personal trainer than on social media.
