There is so much fitness information out there, it is hard to sort fact from fiction. So here at Hi B Fitness, we have some of the most common myths busted.

1) Weight training will make women bulky

To be bulky and “manly” you need a lot of testosterone. The average man produces ten times the amount of testosterone as the average woman.  Without it, you can’t be bulky. So, unless you plan to inject yourself with steroids, you have very little to worry about. If you’re concerned about your arms being too big, lose more fat. Don’t be afraid of gaining more muscle.

2) If you want to lose weight, workout more

This one is only kind of true. Working out more certainly increases the amount of calories you burned that day. It can give you spikes in metabolism that can last up to 72 hours. And if you do it right, you’ll build muscle that itself will raise your metabolism just by existing. But, all of those things miss the point. Fat loss is all about calories in, calories out. To lose weight, calories in have to be less than calories out.

3) Cardio is better to lose weight than weight lifting

This myth is a derivative of the first two.  If you lose fat and lose muscle along with it, It will be harder in the future to lose fat. Less Muscle = Lower Metabolism. Fat loss programs should be first about controlling the ratio of calories in/calories out, and second about doing everything in your power to prevent losing muscle. This means a good diet combined with a good weight training routine. If you have time for cardio, be my guest, but that comes third!

4) Doing Crunches and ab workouts will get rid of belly fat

Ab workouts help strenghten your core and tone the muscles. However, your body doesn’t burn fat solely on the area you work. To get visibly toned abs, you first have to reduce your overall body fat. Having a strength training routine coupled with cardio and eating right will get you that six-pack that you desire so much.

5) You have to feel pain to gain any benefits

While a small bit of soreness can be expected a day or two after working out, this is entirely different from feeling pain while working out. If you are feeling pain while working out, you are either doing the exercise incorrectly or already have an injury. If you are feeling pain, do not try to “push through it”, stop and rest. See if the pain goes away, or if it is constant. If you are unsure, consult a doctor.

If you have any questions, feel free to speak with any of our qualified members of staff at Hi B Fitness.

Hi B Fitness, shaping you for life.