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6 Fitness myths debunked: Common misconceptions slowing your progress

Blog Author
Harry Longworth
Date of post
8 November 2024
Blog Category

Ever feel like you’re putting in the work but not getting the results you want? Sometimes, it’s less about how hard you’re working and more about falling for some fitness myths. 

Here are a few common misconceptions that might be holding you back.

Myth 1: More workouts = better results

A lot of us believe that the more we work out, the faster we’ll get fit. But overdoing it can actually be counterproductive. Your body needs rest to repair and build muscle. Overworking just leads to burnout and even injuries.

Reality: Quality beats quantity every time. Find a routine that includes rest days and mix in different types of workouts for well-rounded progress.

Myth 2: Cardio is the key to weight loss

It’s easy to think running, cycling, and other cardio are the best ways to lose weight. While cardio is great for your heart, it’s not the end-all for burning fat.

Reality: Strength training is just as important, if not more so, when it comes to dropping weight and keeping it off. Building muscle raises your metabolism, helping you burn more calories all day, not just while working out.

Myth 3: Lifting weights will make you “bulky”

This one’s especially common with women who worry that weightlifting will lead to “too much” muscle. The truth? It takes a lot of time, effort, and a specific diet to build large muscles.

Reality: Lifting weights won’t turn you into a bodybuilder overnight. In fact, it helps you get toned, build strength, and burn fat.

Myth 4: You can target fat loss

Hate your belly or want slimmer arms? We’ve all done endless crunches or arm workouts thinking it’ll target the fat there. But spot reduction isn’t how the body works.

Reality: Fat loss happens gradually and evenly across the body. Combining strength training, cardio, and a balanced diet will help you lose fat overall – and you’ll see those areas improve along the way.

Myth 5: You need supplements to see real gains

Supplements are everywhere, and sure, they can be convenient. But relying on them to make up for nutrition gaps or to fast-track results isn’t ideal.

Reality: A good diet should always come first. Protein, healthy fats, and whole grains give you the foundation for real progress. Supplements are just that – supplements to an already strong diet.

Myth 6: No pain, no gain

Pushing through pain can sound tough, but the wrong kind of pain is a red flag, not a sign of success.

Reality: Mild soreness is normal after a tough workout, but sharp or persistent pain means something’s wrong. Rest, adjust, or get checked out if you need to. Training should be challenging, not damaging.

Falling for fitness myths is easy, especially with all the advice out there. But keeping things simple and sticking to balanced training and nutrition will get you farther. Focus on consistency, listen to your body, and remember that you’re building long-term habits, not chasing quick fixes. 

Need help with your fitness journey? Get in touch and we can help you out. 

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