10 of the most common fitness myths in history

Updated
Workout Myth: You Can't Change Your 'Slow' Metabolism
Workout Myth: You Can't Change Your 'Slow' Metabolism


Whether you're a workout guru or just getting into the groove of things for that perfect summer body, there are a few things you definitely need to know.

It's no secret that getting in shape and staying in shape aren't exactly easy tasks -- but you may be either putting too much pressure on yourself or doing unnecessary workouts all because of certain "fitness myths" you may have heard in the past.

But not to worry, we're here to debunk these myths and help you get fit the RIGHT way. Here are 10 of the most common false assumptions in fitness history, thanks to Fitness Magazine.

1) Lifting weights will make you look bulky and manly

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Men have 20 to 30 times the more testosterone than women, which is why they can bulk up so noticeably. In fact, strength training will help you lose weight faster and keep it off in the long run.

2) Sports bras are just to prevent painful bounce

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They're also to prevent permanent breast sag!

3) A hot bath will prevent muscle soreness

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Cold water is actually a better choice.

%shareLinks-quote="Immersing yourself in chilled water is like an ice pack for your entire body." type="quote" author="Marty Jaramillo" authordesc="CEO of the I.C.E. Sports Health Group" isquoteoftheday="false"%

4) Running is counterproductive to strength training

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Running actually helps develop more lean muscle mass in the lower body, which also keeps your bones healthy.

5) Holding weights while doing cardio increases calorie burn

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The added intensity of holding weights while doing cardio does bump your calorie burn slightly, but can lead to elbow and shoulder injuries.

6) Fresh fruit is better than frozen fruit

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Think again!

%shareLinks-quote="With shipping and storage, fresh fruit can often sit around for as long as two weeks before it hits your supermarket." type="quote" author="Suzanne Henson" authordesc="Director of the University of Alabama at Birmingham's EatRight Weight Management Program" isquoteoftheday="false"%

7) Doing crunches and ab workouts will get rid of belly fat

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In order to get visibly toned abs, you have to reduce your overall body fat, which means plenty of cardio, coupled with strength training.

8) Vegetarian diets are healthier than meat-inclusive ones

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Meat is a key source of iron, which keeps your energy levels up allowing you to think clearly and produces enzymes that fight infection.

9) Stretching before working out is crucial to preventing injury

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Some studies suggest that stretching actually destabilize muscles, making them less prepared for strenuous exercise.

10) Drinking water can help you lose weight

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Doctors at the University of Pennsylvania have said you should actually drink only when you're thirsty, and this is done just to replace the amount of water a healthy adult loses every day.

Click through for healthy eating myths you've probably falling for at least once before:



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