6 Exercise Myths Busted
Tuesday 18 December 2007
We've all heard the phrase "no pain, no gain" but here's some good news, it's not true! Closerdiets.com has discovered the facts behind these exercise myths. Eating healthily and exercising sensibly are the key to any good weight loss plan, just look at Claire Sweeney.
1. If you are not going to work out hard and often, exercise is a waste of time
This kind of thinking keeps a lot of people from maintaining or even starting an exercise programme. Research continues to show that any exercise is better than none. For example, regular walking or gardening for as little as an hour a week has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. If you exercise long and hard enough, you will always get the results you want
In reality, genetics plays an important role in how people respond to exercise. Studies have shown a wide variation in how different exercisers respond to the same training programme. Your development of strength, speed and endurance may be very different from that of other people you know.
3. It has been said that the health and fitness benefits of mind-body exercises like Tai Chi and Yoga are questionable
This couldn't be farther from the truth. In fact, research showing the benefits of these exercises continues to grow. Exercises such as these have been shown to help treat low-back pain and fibromyalgia. Improved flexibility, balance, coordination, posture, strength and stress management are just some of the potential results of mind-body exercise.
4. Home workouts are fine, but going to a gym is the best way to get fit
Research has shown that some people find it easier to stick to a home-based fitness programme. In spite of all the hype on trendy exercise programmes and facilities, the "best" programme for you is the one you will actually do.
5. Exercise is one sure way to lose all the weight you desire
As with all responses to exercise, weight gain or loss is impacted by many factors, including dietary intake and genetics. All individuals will not lose the same amount of weight on the same exercise programme. It is possible to be active and overweight. However, although exercise alone cannot guarantee your ideal weight, regular physical activity is one of the most important factors for successful long-term weight management.
6. Overweight people are unlikely to benefit much from exercise
Studies show that obese people who participate in regular exercise programmes have a lower risk of all-cause mortality than sedentary individuals, regardless of weight. Both men and women of all sizes and fitness levels can improve their health with modest increases in activity.
WORDS: Nicky Harley