All of us work out with certain preconceived notions. However if we do follow some dangerous or mistaken practices it is time we equip ourselves with knowledge that will not harm our body or the affect our fitness regime.
Here are 12 myths that most of us thought were true:
- Spot reduction is possible
If you want to lose weight in a particular area, for example your belly, you start doing exercises that concentrate only on that particular abdominal area. What you don’t realize is the fact that when you work out you burn fat all over your body and not just in one spot.
- You should not work out on an empty stomach
What we have always heard is that we should never work out on an empty stomach. But the fact revealed after a recent study is that when you work out on an empty stomach you burn extra fat and lose more calories.
- You need to stretch before a workout
This is the mistake almost all of us make when we hit the gym. Stretching loosen our muscles and tendons instead of making them sturdy enough to exercise. So try to avoid stretches.
Instead opt to perform gentle warm up exercises such as a short walk.
- Machines are better than free weights
Machines concentrate on a few muscles whereas free weight exercises exert more muscles and help you burn more calories.
- If you sweat it means you are not in shape
Another common misconception we have is that if you sweat excessively you are not in shape.
But the fact is that the more you sweat the fitter you are.
- Pain means your muscles are getting worked out
Of course it is completely normal to suffer from slight pain when working out. But you should know to differentiate between sharp pain and small pains.
If you experience any sharp pains, do not hesitate to visit the doctor.
- Heavy weights only add mass
Weight generally adds a little mass. But it does not mean that when you lift heavier weights you will not burn calories and lose weight.
- You should not work out everyday
Of course rest is essential when you work out but not so much so that it interferes with your fitness regime. You will know when your body is asking for rest.
Do not work out if your body cannot take it. Your body will send out signals. Just be sure to watch out for them.
- Heavy workouts make us hungry
The fact is that when you exercise, your body will fight off hunger cravings that do not relate to actual hunger.
- Running outside and in the gym are the same
Running in the open air, outside will make you lose more calories. When you are outdoors you face the unpredictable terrain, wind or any other force that will make you exert more energy and burn more calories.
So switch to running or walking outdoors if you want a breath of fresh air and also lose calories in a natural environment.
- You cannot work out when you are sick
If you are suffering from a simple cold then there is nothing that can stop you from working out. But if your health condition is more serious and might be a fever or a tummy ache you might want to rest till you get better.
Working out when you’re sick will only put unnecessary pressure on your body.
- Crunches alone will help you tone your abs
You need to perform a set of multiple exercises to work every muscle of your core to tone your abs. Doing only crunches will not melt fat that is present in the body.
