All you need to do is perform a quick Google search on any fitness topic and you’ll inevitably come across information that has long since been ruled out. We’re not sure how these fitness myths keep coming back but one thing is for sure, they need to be officially put to rest. Let’s take a look at the top 4 fitness myths that you’ve no doubt come across at one point or another.

4. Weight Lifting Makes Women Bulk Up

How is this one still around?!

Weight lifting, otherwise known as resistance training, is one of the best ways to get in shape. Somehow the idea that lifting weights (dumbbells and barbells) will make women look like Arnold just won’t go away. Are there bulky and jacked women out there? Of course! Did they attain that size naturally? Slim chance.

Don’t believe this fitness myth, ladies. Go and get acquainted with the dumbbells and barbells in your local gym.

3. All Fat is Bad

Fat became public enemy number one back in the 90s and even though there have been numerous studies proving that not ALL fat is bad for you, people still avoid it. Yes, there is one really bad fat. It’s called trans fat and it’s found in many processed foods. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are far from bad. Even healthy saturated fats have a place in your diet. Just don’t overdo it. Above all, AVOID trans fat.

2. Crunches Are the Best Way to a Six Pack

While crunches do play an important part in building a set of impressive abs, they are far from the only way to achieve that look. What’s more, crunches work the upper portion of your abs. That leaves the lower part of the abs and the deep abdominal muscles. If you want to earn a seriously incredible six pack, you need to use a variety of core exercise with crunches being the least important. Try the following:

• Planks
• Hanging Leg Raises
• Vacuums
• Windmills
• Cable Crunches (SO much better than ordinary crunches)

1. All Workouts Should Last 45 to 60 Minutes

The biggest fitness myth of all is about workout timing. Most people believe that a workout needs to last for at least 45 minutes. Some people even push this belief to 2 hours!

Studies show that long duration, low intensity workouts are inferior to short duration, high intensity workouts. The exception would be when you’re training for a specific sport like bodybuilding. If all you’re doing is trying to burn fat or build a respectable amount of muscle, H.I.I.T. has your back.

These workouts last an average of 15 minutes and can be exactly what you need to achieve the body you want in less time. Want to learn more about these workouts? Click here to read our article on high intensity interval training.

Tell Us What You Think!

What fitness myths do you keep hearing?

Have you been caught up in the trap of some of our fitness myths?
Let us know in the comments below!