In the world of fitness, myths and misconceptions often abound, making it challenging to separate fact from fiction. As trainers, we come across various fitness myths that can hinder people from reaching their goals or enjoying their fitness journey to the fullest. Our role as trainers is to address and debunk some of these common fitness myths, providing you with evidence-based insights to help you make informed choices. So let’s dive in and explore the truth behind these myths!
Anna
Myth 1: “Eating before bed leads to fat storage.”
“I often encounter the myth that you cannot eat before bed because your body will not metabolize what you eat at night and will store it as fat. Your metabolism is always working and does not just shut off when you sleep. We burn calories constantly (even when you sleep!) and energy is always being expended. Much like breathing, it does not turn off. Feel free to eat whenever you want, as long as it is regular to help with your blood sugar levels and general mood. I like to eat at the same time everyday so I can help with my hunger and satiety levels.”
Sean
Myth 3: “Running is bad for you and your joints.”
“This one gets me every time, running is an inherently human function, the problem is we are never shown optimal running form, and most people are not consistent with their running which in turn leads to nagging injuries. With a basic level of strength, mobility as well as a better understanding of running form everyone can run and should run. We as bipeds developed to cover great distances on foot, be that by running or walking.”
Megan
Myth 3: “You can target weight loss.”
“Something I encounter a lot with my clients is that they want to target fat from a certain part of their body. Truth is working out can reduce overall fat, but you can’t control what part of you body burns the most fast. Your body breaks down fat and uses it as fuel when you exercise, but your body’s not picky. It’ll burn fat from anywhere in your body, not just the part you’re working the most.”
Sarah
Myth 4: “Deadlifts are bad for your low back.”
“Deadlifts can be great exercises to make sure you do everyday movements without getting injured. Proper form and starting lightly is the way to start as most injuries from deadlifts are from going too heavy for how your form is.”
Mark
Myth 5: “Hold your breath while lifting.”
“Holding your breath while lifting is a pervasive myth in the fitness industry. Without failure, when I ask clients to exhale during the most difficult part of an exercise, they light up when they realize how much easier it is to lift with a full, free breath.”
Want to hear more from our trainers about surprising fitness myths? Check out our youtube videos:
Pilates vs Weightlifting – The Surprising Truth About Which is Better
Personal Trainers React to TikTok Fitness Hacks
