Michelle Bridges debunks her top five workout myths

With the amount of fitness information out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure about what’s true and what isn’t. Here Michelle Bridges, trainer and founder of 12WBT, debunks her top 5 workout myths and why you should stop believing them right now!

Myth 1: Lifting weights will make you look big and bulky

This is one of the most common workout myths, particularly with regards to women. Lifting weights does not make you bulky. In fact, it’s pretty hard for women to bulk from normal strength training. We don’t have the same amount of testosterone that helps men to build muscle and bulk up more easily. What it does do is help build lean muscle and if your goal is weight loss, that is exactly what you want.

Myth 2: It’s better to work out in the morning

The most important factor for achieving exercise goals is to simply consistently work out. Getting your workouts done in the first place is more than half the battle own. Rather focus your energy on getting into a routine that works for you and your schedule. Because as long as you’re getting your workouts done, no matter the time of day, you are putting yourself in the best position to see results.

Myth 3: If the number on the scale isn't going down, I'm not losing weight

When weight loss is your goal, it's easy to get fixated on the numbers on the scales. And in truth there are more effective and mentally less stressful ways to track your progress. Taking measurements, photos and keeping track of how your clothing fits are all great indications of how you are doing. At 12WBT, we believe in ‘non-scale victories’. So even if the numbers on scale aren’t going down, check how that pair of jeans is fitting and how you are feeling for a more realistic measure of success.

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Myth 4: Don’t worry about the food you eat, as long as you work out

Sadly, this is not close to true and while there was once the belief that losing weight depended majorly on the amount of exercise (aka cardio) you do. However, over time and with greater research, we’ve learned that the weight loss ratio is actually 80% nutrition and 20% exercise. The goal is to fuel your body well with the right healthy foods to help you get to the goals you want to achieve.

Myth 5: Working out at the gym is better than at home

You don’t have to go to the gym to smash out a workout and see results. Home workouts are great, and in some cases, can offer more flexibility and variety. There’s plenty you can do with very little equipment and just your body weight!