6 Myths About Fitness

We live in a society where the surest and fastest way to getting the results we want is the best way to guarantee success.  For decades, women have been subjected to the belief that perfection and beauty lies in wearing a dress size smaller than a “6” along with flat abs, shapely thighs, tight butts, voluptuous breasts, flawless skin and a tiny waist line.  Talk about pressure!

We want and desire the image of perfection so badly; our attempts at attaining the dream are boundless.  Sometimes the cost doesn’t matter because the hope and fear of failing is so strong. 

It’s time to set the record straight ladies and fill you in on what truly is hype when it comes to fitness.   Here are just a few myths you should know.

1.        Pilates makes you long and lean - Sorry, your bones don’t miraculously grow.  What it does do is improve your flexibility, posture and strengthens your core.

2.       All you need is cardio to lose excess weight - Even though cardio burns calories, an intense weight lifting regime not only burns more calories but will continue to do so up to 16 hours later.

3.       Working with weights gives women bigger muscles - Big muscles come from testosterone which we don’t produce.  Lifting weights prevents loss of muscle as we age, helps keep your metabolism stoked so you’re less likely to gain weight and helps keep aging bones strong.  So get out there and start lifting weights or using bands.

4.       Butts get big from using step machines -   If you’re booty is getting bigger, it’s because you’re cheating in the snack/meal department.  A Stairmaster will actually shrink your behind by toning muscles and burning calories when done the right way … that means not holding on.  To work the correct muscles climb at a low to moderate speed, let go of the side rails and maintain correct posture.

5.       Stretch before you exercise - It doesn’t prevent injury.  As a matter of fact, studies show doing so before a workout doesn’t reduce your risk of getting hurt, but could actually increase it.  If you’re going running, start out at a brisk walk for the first 15 minutes to warm up your muscles.  Stretch after when your muscles are warm.

Crunches every day will break down belly fat – Any amount of belly fat lying atop abs won’t go away no matter how religiously you work out.  The key is following a healthy diet and eating those foods that will surely break down the excess fat.