Around 50% of Americans prioritize their wellness, which explains why fitness myths have changed how we work out.
Fitness myths can lead us astray and do more harm than good. But if you don’t know how to spot them, you may incorrectly exercise and won’t reap the health benefits of exercise. Maybe that’s why you’re here; you want to avoid the top myths and need a nudge in the right direction.
Sounds like you? No worries, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top fitness myths to avoid.
Stretching Before a Workout Prevents Injury
Many fitness influencers share false workout tips, such as stretching before a workout prevents injury. Although there is a flicker of truth, it’s the type of stretch that can protect you.
Ideally, you should avoid “static” stretches, like bending towards your toes, as it doesn’t warm up your muscles. Instead, try dynamic stretches where you add cardio movements and increase the range of motion.
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Morning Workouts Boost Your Metabolism
Another myth in the fitness industry is that morning workouts boost your metabolism. Sure, it’s great for increasing your energy levels throughout the day, but it isn’t always the best. In fact, if you’re not a morning person and you force an early workout, it could throw off your circadian rhythm and you’ll end up feeling sluggish.
Longer Workouts Are More Effective
Workouts are essential for optimal health, but you needn’t spend hours at the gym. In reality, you should break up your routine, so that you do cardio, mobility, and resistance. You should also limit each one to 40 minutes for the best results.
Walking Doesn’t Do Anything for You
Many people try different types of workouts without realizing that a 30-minute stroll can benefit their health too. For instance, research has found that walking improves your brain’s health and even benefits your gut. A bonus is that going for a stroll also activates your entire body, which is great if you’re after a gentle workout.
Not Using Supplements
Another myth in the health and wellbeing sector is that supplements aren’t useful. Whether you’re using Deer Antler Spray or taking extra protein, these are great for boosting your overall well-being and giving you extra nutrients. Also, these minimize recovery time, making them a win-win.
You Can Target Specific Areas
In a perfect world, we could target specific areas, but this isn’t possible. Although many workouts claim to target abs or your arms, these won’t dramatically change your body. To combat this myth, target your entire body during a routine and you’ll see your desired results.
Lifting Weights Makes You Bulky
Don’t avoid weightlifting because of this myth. This is a common misconception, especially for women, and deters them from adding it to their routine. Note, as a female, you won’t transform into a bodybuilder because female hormones prevent excess muscle mass.
In reality, lifting strengthens your joints, and ligaments, and even boosts your metabolism.
Detoxing to Lose Weight
Don’t fall for the myth that detoxing helps you lose weight. Nowadays, our Instagram feeds are bombarded with juice cleanses where you swap out regular meals for a kale-packed drink. Although this has some health benefits, only drinking liquids can slow your metabolism and encourage your body to retain fat.
You Need Sports Drinks to Replenish Your Electrolytes
Sport drinks mainly benefit endurance athletes who are pumping iron for long periods. If you’re casually working out, you’re putting your hard work to waste as it’s packed with sugar. Instead, stick with water, unless you’re training for a competition or a marathon.
The More You Exercise, the Better
Fitness fanatics make the mistake of thinking that the more your exercise, the better it is. The problem is that it isn’t true and it can often lead to burnout. Instead, aim to exercise at least three times a week for the best results.
Running Will Destroy Your Knees
Another myth is that running destroys your knees. Although the improper technique is harmful, it still won’t destroy your joints. If you’re worried, invest in good-quality running shoes as these are designed to correct any issues with your form and provide comfort.
Fat-Free Foods Are Better for You
We’ve all made the mistake of choosing low-fat yogurt or meals because we think there are fewer calories. The problem is that fat helps our endocrine system and releases energy throughout the body. So, if we completely remove it, you’ll end up feeling sluggish and weak.
Also, many low- or non-fat foods have higher levels of sugar, so they taste better. If you’re unsure, read the label and be mindful of the contents.
Skipping Meals Helps You Lose Weight
This dangerous myth can not only impact your health but prevent you from losing weight (if that’s your goal). Often, you’ll end up feeling hungrier in the evening and over-eating to compensate. Or, you may crave unhealthy snacks packed with sugar.
As a result, you may binge food or eat larger portions, which will make you gain weight over an extended period.
Debunk the Top Fitness Myths Today
Hopefully, you’ll no longer fall for the common fitness myths.
There are many myths to avoid, such as the belief that skipping meals helps you lose weight and you should always drink sports drinks. People on their fitness path should also schedule 40-minute workouts and ditch fat-free foods because they’re often packed with sugar. Good luck on your fitness journey!
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