Exercising seems simple enough until you realize that workouts are more than just the physical movements themselves.
That’s why there are many do’s and don’ts but sometimes, “bro science” tends to be passed off as sensible advice and that’s when our health gains can be held back.
Take a look at some of these common myths that may be doing you more harm than good.
1 – Mornings are the best times for workouts
Studies show that it doesn’t matter if you do your workout in the morning or evening because the results are the same. The most important aspect is consistency, whether it’s going to the gym in the evening or going for a run in the morning. So the best hours to work out are the ones when you feel ready to exercise.
2 – Puzzles, games, and crosswords provide the best methods of training for your brain
These activities aren’t bad but neither are they the only methods to improve brain power and function. Physical exercise benefits both the body and brain. Improvements in a person’s mood, memory function, and protection from dementia were observed when they participated in sports.
3 – You’ll still be in shape even after skipping a few weeks of exercises
In truth, you start to lose muscle tone just after one week of not working out. So don’t stop even if you achieved your exercise goals because the next step is to maintain your gains.
4 – Long-distance marathons are the only types of running you should do
People who run short distances were found to have the same level of heart function as those who participate in marathons. In fact, light exercises such as jogging or walking are also better for the body because the heart and vascular system can easily adjust to the workouts.
5 – You should stay hydrated with energy drinks during a workouts
But energy drinks are merely water with sugar. Instead, drink pure water during a workout then restore your energy by eating food full of protein post workout.
6 – You can substitute the park for a treadmill
Even covering the same distances, jogging on a treadmill will not get you the same benefits as jogging in the fresh air. Running against the wind actually activates a certain group of muscles that ends up burning 10% more calories compared to running on a treadmill.
7 – Intense workouts will make you hungry
If a workout makes you hungry, something went wrong. Physical exercise is actually supposed to suppress hunger pangs because the body reacts by slowing down the production of the hunger hormone ghrelin while leptin goes up.
8 – You can eat protein bars instead of oatmeal
Protein bars are processed foods that require fewer calories to digest. They can be used as snacks but are not substitutes for oatmeal or even other cereals.
9 – You can only get your calcium from dairy products
There are other foods that are packed with calcium such as broccoli, spinach, and sesame seeds. They’re great substitutes for dairy products that are not always as healthy as we’ve come to believe.
10 – You can treat a backache with yoga
This only holds true if the pain stems from muscle problems. But more serious issues like hernias or protrusions won’t go away by doing yoga. In those cases, consult a doctor before starting yoga.
11 – Running will damage your knees and ankles
The latest studies show that running doesn’t harm your legs and in fact, strengthens them so that they are less prone to injuries.
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