Debunking Fitness Myths

Whether you are starting out on your fitness journey or you are a fitness veteran, you would likely have come across some common myths! Some myths range from completely inaccurate to downright silly, but rest assured, we are here to give you the truth!

Myth 1: Muscle turns into fat once you stop training

If you have a break from training, muscle cells start to shrink as your body doesn’t need to keep up with the demand you have previously placed on it. However, your muscle cells will not magically morph into fat cells. Rather, your muscles will naturally decrease, and your physique will appear less toned.

Myth 2: Cardio kills muscle gains

There is a common misconception that cardiovascular activity can cause you to lose muscle. However, when combined with strength training, cardio can do quite the opposite. It will enhance your overall fitness whilst helping you to perform better and in turn, lift heavier weights.

Myth 3: You should train every day to see progress

When starting your fitness journey you may feel extremely motivated and want to hit the gym every day! Whilst that motivation is great, excessive training can lead to burn out, decreased performance and even injury. Ideally, having two rest days a week will allow your body to rest, recover and grow those muscles!

Myth 4: You must feel sore after a workout

Soreness after a workout can come in waves; you may feel super sore one day and not feel it at all the next day! This is healthy and shows that your training is effective. If you regularly train to the point of severe muscle soreness or DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), you will be putting your body under strain and naturally, your next session will be painful. You can build muscle and increase your fitness level without experiencing soreness, so don’t be discouraged if you can walk down the stairs perfectly fine after leg day!

Myth 5: Cardio is the best way to lose weight

Any form of exercise will be a great start on your weight loss journey! However, the addition of strength training will aid in the general appearance of your body, allowing you to feel and look more toned. Strength training is effective at burning calories and building muscle, so is ideal alongside a healthy, balanced diet. Just don’t forget that muscle weighs more than fat!

Myth 6: Weightlifting is for younger people

Weightlifting is for all ages! As you start to get older, your muscle mass naturally declines. Strength training is great for seniors as it can help to manage or prevent:

• Low bone density
• Arthritis
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease

Not only does it help with the above, but it will also aid every day life!