Fitness Myth #1 – “I’ll get big and bulky if I lift weights.”
Truth: Weight training is the fastest, most effective way for women to get the body they desire. Lifting weights has more of a sculpting effect verses other forms of exercise. In order to get big and bulky, you would have to train specifically for that look using heavy weights.
Fitness Myth #2 – “If I want to get a trimmer waistline, I need to do more cardio.”
Truth: Cardio is very efficient for burning calories. However, if you want to make an impact on your middle section and waistline, you have to do a specific combination of abdominal exercises, proper diet, and aerobics/cardio.
Fitness Myth #3 – “It’s too late to do something about my health and fitness.”
Truth: It’s never too late to see the health benefits that exercise provides – such as lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and reduced risk for diabetes, just to name a few. With consistency, most people see positive changes in their body along with major health benefits. When beginning a new fitness program, it is important to start with small “doable” changes and build over time. Celebrate your successes along the way.
Fitness Myth #4 – “My schedule is too hectic to find the time to exercise.”
Truth: When you make exercise part of your morning ritual, your chances of sticking to it long-term skyrocket. It becomes a habit – just like brushing your teeth. Plus, it makes it more likely that last-minute “to-do’s” or that last-minute project from the boss won’t influence you to miss your workouts.
Fitness Myth #5 – “I can’t wear short sleeve shirts.”
Truth: A regular work out program of 5 simple exercises can take you from hiding your arms to showing them off in short sleeves in as little as 3 months. Arm exercises can be done from your home or your office – all you need is one light dumbbell and 15 minutes, 3 times a week.
Fitness Myth #6 – “To meditate correctly, you have to sit for hours at a time.”
Truth: Some people can meditate for hours at a time, and while this is admirable, it simply isn’t feasible for most of us on a daily basis. The best way to get a routine started is to make time for 5-10 minutes to clear your mind first thing in the morning, before you start your day.
Fitness Myth #7 – “I can never stick to a diet.”
Truth: “Get thin quick” diets never work in the long term because they are unrealistic. Instead, ask yourself, “How can I reduce my calorie intake on a daily basis” and focus on getting adequate protein, making “good” carbohydrate choices, and reducing saturated fats. This will put you on the right path! Also, before you try any diet, I recommend that you make an appointment with a Registered Dietitian.