The internet, magazines, and fitness books are full of advice about getting in shape. Unfortunately, many common strength training myths and misconceptions can actually get in the way of the strength training goals you’re working towards.
At Team Dee’s in Las Vegas, NV, we want to help you uncover the truth behind 6 of the most harmful strength training myths so you can start to see real results.
Myth # 1 – Heavy Weights Make Women Bulky
If you are worried that heavy lifting will turn you into the Hulk, rest assured. Most women naturally produce much less testosterone than men and are physiologically unable to build overly massive muscles without the use of steroids. Strength training is much more likely to make you lean, toned, and sculpted rather than big and bulky.
Myth # 2 – Cardio Is Better For Fat Loss
While it’s true that cardio typically burns more calories during your workout, strength training is still beneficial if you’re trying to burn fat. Building muscle mass can increase your metabolism. So you’ll burn more calories than you otherwise would even when you’re at rest.
Myth # 3 – You Can Reduce Fat In Targeted Areas
Another common strength training myth is that it is possible to burn fat in specific areas of the body by vigorously exercising the muscles in those areas alone. Fat loss occurs in response to a caloric deficit and happens all over the body, meaning you can’t choose where you lose it.
If taken to the extreme, these highly-targeted practices can even lead to muscle imbalances or increase your risk of injury.
Myth # 4 – You’ll See Results Instantly
Strength training progress doesn’t happen overnight or even over the course of a couple of weeks. Realistically, you can expect to see some real results after 6-8 weeks of consistent training, although this may differ for everyone. Hiring a personal trainer can help you stay motivated and stick with your exercise program in the long term.
Myth # 5 – Weightlifting Makes You Less Flexible
While it’s true that lifting weights with improper form can reduce your mobility and increase your risk of injury, it’s not true that all forms of weightlifting will have this effect. In fact, full-range resistance training can actually increase your flexibility if performed properly—especially with the guidance of a fitness coach.
Myth # 6 – You Should Ignore Muscle Soreness
When it comes to training your muscles, rest days are just as important as the workouts themselves. Weightlifting creates small tears in your muscle fibers, which causes soreness. The healing of these tears is what causes your muscles to grow, but they can only heal if you give them enough time to recover. If you overexert yourself by continuing to lift even when you’re very sore, you run the risk of injury.
Hire A Personal Trainer In Las Vegas
At Team Dee’s, we are committed to providing educated fitness advice and professional guidance to help you see real results. Contact Dee Bloom for a personal training consultation today.