There is a lot of advice online that provides you with guidance on how to have a successful fitness journey. However, not all the information that you obtain online will be beneficial in your journey. Many people are even confused about what to do due to common myths around fitness that are discouraging. Let’s explore some of the popular fitness myths that may be negatively affecting your fitness journey.
1. You Need at least one Hour of Exercise Per Day
On the list of workout myths that are not true is that you have to dedicate at least an hour to see results. Exercising for 15-20 minutes goes a long way if you are doing high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or strength circuits. The key is to remain consistent, and you can see impressive progress.
2. You Can’t Burn Fat Without Cardio
Cardio does help to burn a lot of fat, but it is not the only way. If you include strength training in your routine, it will build your muscles. This will not only boost your metabolism but also burn fat. Additionally, if you already have cardio in your routine and you add resistance training, you can see results in your endurance, fat loss, and also having a toned body.
3. Regardless of feeling soreness, keep exercising.
Most people are urged to push through the soreness and pain they feel at the beginning of their fitness routine, but soreness can signal overworked muscles or even minor injuries. It is not always best to keep pushing when such discomfort kicks in because doing so can put you at great risk. Instead of forcing through the pain at full speed, try doing light activities such as walking and stretching.
4. You Can’t Build Strength and Muscles Without Heavy Weights
Another workout myth that is not true is that you can only build strength and muscle by using heavy weights. If you are home, you can do bodyweight exercises, such as push-ups, squats, and planks, to help you build strength. You can also utilise lighter weights with high repetitions, resistance bands, and isometric exercises to strengthen your muscles through consistency and proper form.
5. It’s Better to Workout in the Mornings
There is no better time to grab your gear and start working out than when you have time to fit it into your schedule. While morning workouts boost some people’s energy, others might be satisfied with an afternoon or evening workout, especially if they have work, school, or other physical obligations that hinder them from exercising in the morning. Therefore, the best time is simply what works best for your body and your schedule.
6. You Need Fancy Equipment for Fitness
Expensive gear and gyms will not make you reach your goal if you are inconsistent. The key is to create an effective fitness plan and stick to it. While the machines at the gym do help greatly, you do not need them to get fit. You can see impressive results from doing bodyweight exercises using the resistance bands and small dumbbells you bought online. Furthermore, you can do many physical activities at home, such as running, walking, or biking, that can help you.
Starting Your Fitness Journey
Fitness journeys are flexible, allowing you to create a routine that fits your body and lifestyle. Going for a 10- to 15-minute walk in the morning can be effective, as can doing some yoga for 10 minutes before bed. You can also get some workouts done while watching the TV by doing quicks like lunges, squats, or push-ups during commercial breaks. There are many ways to get a decent workout by implementing more movement into your lifestyle whether it is around your home or on your way home from work.