There are many misconceptions about exercise and weight loss, but don’t let yourself be fooled. Here are six myths and their truths:
Myth: You can take weight off of specific body parts by doing exercises that target those areas.
Truth: This conception is called ‘spot training’. When losing weight, you are unable to choose the area in which the reduction will occur. Your body will predetermine which fat stores it will use. You can however, compliment a balanced exercise program with a selection of weight training exercises to gradually lose weight and tone your body.
Myth: Women who lift weights will bulk up.
Truth: Women’s testosterone levels are much lower than men’s, so they are not capable of building large muscles. In fact, strength training burns calories. Not only can you increase your metabolism and increase strength but will decrease your measurements.
Myth: If you stop exercising you muscles will turn to fat.
Truth: Muscle and fat are two different types of tissues. If you continue to eat as you always have when exercising regularly, but stop exercising, you will see an increase in body fat and loss of muscle mass.
Myth: If you don’t work out hard and often, exercise is a waste of time.
Truth: Even moderate exercise, such as walking, can help you reap benefits such as reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes and stoke.
Myth: To build muscle requires massive amounts of protein.
Truth: According to Dr. Suzanne Steen, University of Washington, building muscle requires only slightly more protein the other individuals and still need adequate carbohydrates. All high intensity, powerful muscle contractions (such as weight lifting) are fuelled with carbohydrate. To build more muscles you simply have to follow a good weight training program and eat a well balanced diet consistently.
Myth: No pain, no gain
Truth: When you are working intensely, you may feel slight discomfort but it should never get to the point where you are in pain. Exercising should be something you enjoy.
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