Eight Myths Surrounding Exercise

Some mistakes are commonly made when exercising, and are often the result of too little knowledge or preparation. Here we have prepared a list of the eight most common mistakes. 

Myth 1: Running on asphalt is bad for the joints

This is a myth which has not yet been scientifically confirmed. Paved roads may even offer advantages. Compared to running on a dirt road, there are no large stones or branches lying around to stumble over. The risk of tripping is lower on asphalt, which makes it easier to relax.  Especially for beginners, running a paved route is therefore better. Advanced runners can venture off road, as it represents a greater challenge and offers more stimuli.

Myth 2: Magnesium helps with muscle spasm

There are now studies that contradict this assumption. One would have to take 400 to 600 milligrams of magnesium to e notice any effect. This high of an amount would practically guarantee diarrhea. Magnesium deficiencies can indeed be a cause of muscle cramps. To prevent them, you may want to supplement magnesium, but a lack of magnesium will not cause them. 

Myth 3: Sporty people are slim

Unfortunately, this is not always true. The reason is simple. Of course, you burn calories during exercise but you must balance the calories that you eat in order to loose weight. If you overeat by 1,000 calories, jogging off 500 calories will not help you lose weight. 

Myth 4: Exercise prevents cellulite

Unfortunately, this is not true. From the age of 30 on, cellulite occurs in four out of five women, whether you do sports or not. The causes are primarily genetic in nature. Sports can reduce cellulite or delay it, but cannot prevent. (Risk factors include alcohol, fat, coffee and too little hydration.)

Myth 5: Fat burning starts only after 30 minutes

Wherever this assumption comes from, it is false. Fat burning begins immediately. It is quite logical. Muscles need fuel to function. Therefore, carbohydrates and fat are burned even at the very beginning of exercise.

Myth 6: Exercise is bad for the back

This is not true because movement stimulates blood circulation, which is important for the spine. Better blood supply provides your body with more nutrients. Exercise and sports are essential for a healthy back.

Myth 7: Non smokers have better condition

This is not always right. Smoking hugely affects lung function and it's very unhealthy. Nevertheless, smokers who exercise regularly, could be fitter than non-smokers who do not exercise.

Myth 8: Sport transforms fat into muscle

That would be great. Unfortunately, it is not true. Fatty tissue and muscle are two completely different things. Fat cannot be converted by the body into muscle. Fat is broken down and muscles are built during exercise. This works best with a combination of strength and endurance training.

Next week we continue with Part 2.