Myths that are holding you back in the gym
The fitness space is full of advice (too much) and a lot of it is not helpful.
Some of the most common ‘tips and tricks’ you hear may actually be slowing down your progress.
If you want to reach your goals then read ahead and stop the Myths taking over!
- Cardio is the best way to lose weight
People think that jumping on a treadmill for hours will solve their problems. Yes, the treadmill does burn calories however, the rate that they are burnt are not the most efficient long term.
The truth:
Resistance training is just as important, if not better. It speeds up your metabolism and builds muscle. Combine the two and you will be in a good space to start that weight loss!
- You have to cut out all your favourite foods
Strict diets rarely last, they are so hard to strict to and we are all human. When people fail these unrealistic diets, they do feel like they have failed. Which plays on the motivation.
The truth:
You can still enjoy your favourite foods. It’s all about planning ahead. Think you are going out for a meal on Saturday night. You can ‘bank’ calories just for this!
Take 200 calories a day off your total Monday – Friday. This means you now have an extra 1000 calories for that Saturday. Easy right?
- You can ‘tone’ specific areas
A lot of people’s goals are to ‘tone’ their stomach or arms with targeted exercises but ‘toning’ isn’t a separate process.
The truth:
‘Toning’ is actually a combination of both building muscle and the reduction of body fat %. This happens through resistance training and good nutrition.
- If you’re not sore, it didn’t do anything
DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) can occur and it does happen when training hard or a good session. It can also come from trying something new.
The truth:
You can have highly effective workouts without feeling DOMS the next day. Consistency over chasing the pain. Your body gets used to it and recovery improves. DOMS will come and go, you can not come and go, you have to stay!
- You need to Workout everyday
The more you train the more results you get…. Right?
The truth:
Your body needs time to recover and rebuild. Training everyday will cause higher fatigue and can even set you back and cause injury.
3-5 well-structured sessions per week with adequate rest for the individual is far more effective than 7 rushed and exhausting sessions. Just because you’re tired doesn’t mean it’s good.
What actually works…
Instead of following myths, focus on the fundamentals:
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- Train consistently (not excessively)
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- Combine strength training and cardio
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- Eat a balanced, sustainable diet
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- Get enough rest and recovery
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- Stay patient and trust the process
Final Thoughts:
People overcomplicate things when it comes to health and fitness. Misinformation leads you on a path that you don’t want to be on.
If you’re unsure all you need to do is ask. That is the biggest truth of them all. You will be able to focus on what really matters and see those results!