There is a ton of great information aboout strength training available to everyone these days. But, there is also a ton of terrible information as well. From social media influencers to coaches, to that annoying guy at the office, everyone seems to have their own take on it.
Unfortunately, this has led to an abundance of myths and misconceptions floating around. So, let’s dive right in and debunk some of these false beliefs, shall we?
“Will strength training make me bulky?”
This is perhaps one of the most common misconceptions about strength training, particularly among women. The truth is, building lean muscle takes time and effort. Most people who engage in resistance training will not become “bulky” overnight or even over several months. In fact, strength training can help you achieve a more toned and defined physique. Your genetics, diet, and overall training program will play a significant role in determining how your body responds to strength training.
“Shouldn’t I focus on cardio to lose weight instead of lifting weights?”
While it’s true that cardiovascular exercises burn calories and can aid in weight loss, strength training has its own unique & powerful benefits. Building lean muscle through resistance training can actually increase your metabolic rate, meaning you’ll burn more calories at rest. This will help you achieve your weight loss goals more effectively in the long run. So, incorporating both cardio and strength training into your fitness routine is the way to go!
“Can I target specific areas for fat loss through strength training?”
We’ve all seen those social media posts claiming that specific exercises can target fat loss in certain areas. Unfortunately, this is a myth. You can’t choose where your body loses fat from, as this is determined by factors such as genetics and hormones. However, strength training can help you build muscle in targeted areas, which will contribute to an overall more defined and balanced physique.
“Do I need to lift heavy weights to see results?”
Yes, but the key is to focus on progressive overload, which means gradually increasing the weight, reps, or sets over time. So, don’t be afraid to start with lighter weights and work your way up!
“Can I turn fat into muscle through strength training?”
Unfortunately, this is another myth that needs debunking. Fat and muscle are two entirely different types of tissues, and one cannot be turned into the other. However, strength training can help you build lean muscle while also burning fat, resulting in a more defined and toned physique.
“I’m older, so I shouldn’t bother with strength training, right?”
Absolutely not! Strength training is beneficial for people of all ages. In fact, as we age, we naturally lose muscle mass and bone density, which can lead to an increased risk of falls and fractures. Resistance training can help to combat this loss by maintaining and even increasing muscle mass and bone density. So, it’s never too late to start strength training!
