For Fitness? Sake - Mythbusters

Written by Kari A. Gregory

When I hear similar questions asked by clients or group fitness participants, I know it’s time to re-address some of the more common myths about fitness and how it connects to wellness. Sometimes I wonder if we allow these myths to perpetuate so we have an excuse for non-compliance to healthful fitness and food behavior. No, that can’t be it! Read this article several times and develop a plan to address those myths that have been holding you back.

“I don’t have time to exercise.” We all have the same amount of hours in a day; it’s how we choose to use them that matters. A workout doesn’t have to mean 60-minute sessions each day. Put ten minutes of core exercises into your evening TV watching routine. Run or walk with colleagues on a lunch break. Make more frequent walking trips to the grocery store; wear a backpack to carry your goods. Vow to get up earlier two mornings each week to get in that longer cardio session. Take the time.

“Being overweight runs in my family” rivaled closely by “I have big bones.” We’re each born with a blueprint, but we’re the architects of our bodies and minds. Extra cardio to burn more calories combined with effective strength training will work wonders to combat the nasty family gene pool. Control eating habits by assessing portion sizes and food choices.

“I’m not an athlete.” What defines an athlete isn’t the number of miles logged, races won, or t-shirts earned. It’s the heart and mind that will the body to move developing strength, flexibility, and improved heart and lung capacities. Find an activity you like and get moving. Re-define ‘athlete.’

“I just want to lose weight on my __________” (add any body part). If I had a dollar for every time… We can’t spot-reduce a particular part of our bodies. The inner thigh just doesn’t work in isolation. Compound leg exercises (using several muscle groups) will add strength – and don’t forget the upper body training. Monitoring food input may enhance calorie loss. Increased heart-pumping exercises like cycling or running may improve definition and calorie loss too. It’s a package deal.

“Exercise makes me tired.” Any fit person will tell you there is a balance to be found with working out. Athletes, competitive or recreational, follow periodized training plans (workout programs with volumes manipulated to produce the best results). The right combination of exercise and recovery is intended to stimulate body changes and energy. Find the balance with fitness. Hire a trainer or try a variety of activities to help you figure out what works and in what amounts.

There is a bottom line to exercise and Nike captures it well – “Just Do It.” Put the excuses aside, get out the calendar, and make a plan. The plan needs to include who (that’s you!), what activity, where, and when. Cast the myths aside and dig out your workout gear.

Kari is a personal fitness trainer and mother of four. She can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 249-0963.