|
1. No pain, no gain.
This myth just keeps hanging on and is really
destructive. Pain is a signal that you need to stop
doing whatever you are doing that is causing the pain.
2. If you are not going to exercise long and hard,
then it is a waste of time.
Don’t believe the all or nothing approach! The truth
is that there are tremendous benefits to exercising a
little bit several times a day. Studies show that a 30
minute walk three or more times a week significantly
reduces your risk of heart attack and stroke, lowers
blood pressure, relieves stress and boosts your immune
system.
3. Exercising with weights makes women bulky.
Those big, bulky muscles usually associated with
body builders are the result of intense exercise and, in
most cases, with the male hormone testosterone. Strength
training is a great way for women to tone up, firm up
and increase bone mass, especially important for post
menopausal women. The more muscle mass, the higher the
metabolism, so weight training is also a good way to
maintain ideal body proportions.
4. You can lose weight just by dieting.
More than 90 percent of all people who lose weight
by dieting gain it back. The best way to lose weight is
to eat a healthy diet and exercise moderately.
5. Water fitness programs are primarily for older
people.
Recent studies show that water fitness programs can
be highly challenging and effective for improving
fitness and losing weight.
6. Overweight people are unable to benefit much from
exercise.
Studies show that people of all sizes and fitness
levels can improve their health with modest increases in
activity. In fact, the less fit you are, the more
results you will see in a short period of time with
regular moderate exercise.
7. If you drink water when you exercise, you’ll get
cramps.
You need water when you exercise! If you don’t drink
enough water, you are more likely to feel crampy, tired
and even have headaches without realizing why.
8. Yoga is a completely gentle and safe exercise
program.
Yoga and mind body fitness programs are excellent
for preventing low back problems, improving flexibility,
balance, coordination, posture and strength as well as
decreasing stress. However, some styles can be quite
rigorous both physically and mentally. Be sure to attend
classes that are taught by certified teachers who
include modifications for beginners. And always listen
to your body! If something doesn’t feel right, then
don’t do it!
9. Warming up before working out isn’t necessary if
you’re careful.
Warming up before exercise and stretching properly
after exercise is your best defense against injury.
10. Going to the gym is the best way to get fit.
Research is showing that some people find it easier
to stick to a home-based fitness program rather than
going to the gym. The bottom line: The best program is
the one you will participate in consistently. Find what
you like to do and just do it!
“ If you want others to
be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy,
practice compassion.”
– Dalai Lama
|
