We all wish to be fit and fine. And so, we all make fitness resolutions, be it at the start of the year, or at the start of a new month. However, while everybody makes fitness resolutions, only some follow them.
While most people are too lazy to start, others do not start because of certain myths. Even if they do start, they take the wrong steps – all thanks to these myths.
Here is a piece of truth, you cannot afford to be wrong when it comes to fitness. It can lead to injuries, may also make you compromise on your fitness goals, or make it even harder to achieve them. Hence, it is essential to have clarity.
Today, in this blog, we will be busting some of the most common fitness myths.
Myth: Spot reduction works
Fact: It doesn’t
You might have been instructed a lot of times to engage in an abs workout to lose belly fat and get well-defined abs. But it doesn’t work like that. You cannot just lose fat from any part of the body you wish. You lose fat from the overall body, not just one part. Spot reduction doesn’t work. Where you lose fat first, varies from person to person. It depends on the body composition. The body part where you accumulate more fat is usually the last place where you lose fat from. But once again, it differs from person to person.
Myth: You are too old to workout
Fact: Age is just a number
Who says you cannot work out if you are older? Age is just a number – even when it comes to fitness. Many people refrain from working out thinking their body is not equipped to lift weights or engaging in a demanding workout routine. But it is not true. Even elderly people can work out and lift weights. However, after a certain age, it is essential to be extra careful. You cannot just wake up one random day and decide to do a vigorous workout. You need to give your body some time to adapt to a workout. Even working out comes with levels. If you haven’t worked out your entire life, you cannot do a demanding exercise all of a sudden. You have to start small, take tiny steps and work your way up till your body becomes capable of pulling off a demanding workout.
Myth: You need only cardio to lose weight
Fact: Strength training is as important as cardio
Wish to lose several inches down your waistline? You don’t have to engage in hours of cardio exercise. While cardio is important, so is strength training. In fact, strength training is more effective. This is because cardio burns fat only while you exercise, strength training burns fat even when you are at rest, several hours after your strength training workout.
In a nutshell, if you want to lose weight faster and change your body composition at the same time, a blend of cardio and strength training is recommended. While you can engage in moderate-intensity cardio for 75 minutes, you can practice strength training two times a week, for 45-60 minutes.
Myth: You cannot workout on your period
Fact: Exercise helps in soothing period cramps
Planning to skip your workout because of periods? No need to. You can still work out during your periods. In fact, working out at that time of the month can come with a plethora of benefits. For instance, it can ease your PMS symptoms, soothe stomach cramps, and enhance your mood, to name a few.
For those of you worried if it is safe to work out during your periods; yes, it is safe. Athletes don’t postpone participating in races during their period. So, if they can, you can do it too. However, if you are someone who experiences severe cramps, you might want to go easy on the workout. Avoid vigorous workouts if your body tells you to.
The bottom line
There are many fitness myths that have been perpetuated over the years, some of which are based on outdated research or anecdotal evidence. It’s important to be aware of these myths and to separate fact from fiction when it comes to your fitness routine. By debunking these myths and focusing on evidence-based practices, you can create a sustainable fitness routine that helps you achieve your goals and improve your overall health and well-being. Remember, the key to success is to stay informed, stay consistent, and listen to your body.
