Most bad advice comes after words like “Always” or “Never…” (usually something fun).
Facts are spun and used out of context – and just because something might be true doesn’t mean it’s helpful.
Onward to the biggest myth in the fitness world…
Use Light Weights To Avoid Getting Bulky
Poor advice on several levels.
First, on “exercising” with objects lighter than cell phones…
Outside of a rehabilitation program, such activity does nothing. If you’re going for a lean, toned look, that time would be better spent steaming broccoli.
Second, on lifting lighter weights for higher reps…
Ironically, this is a major part of the muscle building formula. Not to mention the appetite that comes with all that lifting.
Third, on how you eat…
Regardless of how heavy or light you lift, muscle and fat are still built from extra calories.
Fourth, on health and longevity…
We need muscle mass the most when it’s the hardest to build – in old age. Thanks Mother Nature.
Don’t forget, muscle is how you move. You’re going to wish you had 3 more pounds of leg muscle when the toilet seems too low.
Better Advice:
Lift To Improve Performance & Strength
Here’s another doozy…
Do More Cardio For Weight Loss
While not scientifically invalid, this puts many in a tricky place.
Calories used > Calories consumed = Weight loss
The issue is not with the formula, it’s with the focus. There are gyms full of treadmills that also give out free pizza.
See where I’m going with this?
You might be able to outrun a donut breakfast habit for a while, but the problem is your knees will give out before your jaws.
Cardio is important to do for its own right, but using it as a means to smooth over dietary issues is a losing proposition.
At best, it’s a process that will take longer than you want it to. At worst, it contributes to the mindset of exercise as punishment.
Better Advice:
Set Yourself Up For Nutritional Success
Where do you “fall off the wagon”?
Taco Tuesdays? Is the pizza boy on speed dial?
Start to make changes here before chaining yourself to the treadmill.
If you want a deep-dive into the fat-loss strategies backed by science, check out this free course:
“Bad” advice is less about being right or wrong and more about disrespecting the details of what creates lasting change.
The worst advice?
Anything that makes you less excited or more confused about making positive changes in your life.
To your strength!