Bodies by Design: The 5 most outrageous weight loss myths
These days you can't go anywhere without hearing about a new weight loss breakthrough. A pill, a cream or a new fad diet ... you name it, and it's going to solve all of your weight loss problems in 30 days or less. Or not.The truth is that most of the things you hear about weight loss are hype. Plain and simple.I have put together the top 5 myths about weight loss:
#1: You can spot reduce fat from specific areas of your body
This myth is as old as the hills, yet it persists. It must be that the thought of melting fat from any desired part of the body is so appealing, however untrue it may be.
In reality your body will lose weight wherever it wants to. It's safe to assume that you'll lose fat "last place on, first place off." So if you put on weight first in your thighs and then on your waist, then expect it to come off your waist first and then your thighs.
#2: You have to count calories for weight loss
There are so many fad diets out there that paint the picture that weight loss is a complicated process. You have to eat certain foods at certain times and avoid other foods at all costs. Of course, all of these popular diets conflict over which foods you should or shouldn't eat.The truth is that you don't have to make weight loss such a science. Simply eat healthy fresh foods that haven't been processed and eat smarter than you're eating today.No brain science there, just results.
#3: You will bulk up with resistance training
I can't tell you how many times I've heard women tell me that they won't do resistance training because they don't want to bulk up. Each time I have to hide my smile.You see, the process of bulking your muscles takes a lot of hard work. You have to consume high amounts of protein and you have to consistently tax your muscles to fatigue. And you have to have the male hormone testosterone coursing through your body. In short, there is no way to accidentally bulk up.
#4: You can get a six pack from crunches
Just focusing on crunches will not make your midsection chiseled. Hey, ab crunches are great, and you should do them, but don't rely on them to get into great shape.A trim midsection will only come as a result of proper nutrition, effective cardio and consistent resistance training.
#5: Cardio most important exercise for fat loss
Most people think of cardiovascular activities when they think of working out. Going for a run, riding a stationary bike or taking an aerobics class. Well, times have changed and so should your workout.The benefits of resistance training now trump straight cardiovascular training. Resistance training strengthens your heart while toning muscles and increasing bone density.Cardio workouts are not completely a thing of the past; they should fit into your overall plan for health and wellness. The benefits of resistance training, especially in fat loss, are astounding.
The absolute best way to gain unwanted weight is by not eating. Does that come as a surprise? Fasting for extended periods of time actually slows your metabolism (your body's rate of calorie burning). Add to that the fact that you will lose muscle and energy by not supplying your body with proper nutrients.
Bottom line is, you have to work out, eat well, get the proper amount of sleep and reduce your stress levels. You must become a master of taking care of yourself because after all the body you are in today is the only one you will have. Take good care of it and your body will return the favor.
Fred Sassani is the founder of Bodies by Design in Pflugerville, a nationally certified personal trainer and nutrition specialist with 21 years of experience. For more information about Bodies by Design, visit bbdforlife.com.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Bodies by Design: The 5 most outrageous weight loss myths
