Five Fitness Myths That Cause People to Fail

Many of today's fitness programs are all about the quick sell and the desire for even quicker results. But many are based on dangerous fitness myths. Here are five to avoid:

Myth # 1

Pain Equals Gain: It is a popular misconception that only when you feel pain are you benefiting from your workout. "The "no pain, no gain" mentality contributes to more injuries and burnout than any other fitness factor, especially among baby boomers. It is wiser to exercise sustainably over the long term than to push yourself to the breaking point.

Myth #2

A Taskmaster Equals the Best Teacher: Popular reality exercise TV shows portray drill-sergeant-style trainers as the most effective fitness mentors. While leveraging fear and using intimidation may produce instant short-term fitness results, they’re sending the wrong message about how to get and stay fit for a lifetime. Attainable short-term goals and positive reinforcement are more likely to create good fitness habits that are sustainable for life.

Myth #3

Pumping Up the Volume Equals Pumping Up Your Physique: It seems some fitness instructors think screaming louder and blasting the bass is motivational. It's time to think again. While high-decibel workouts may be temporarily motivational, over time they become draining and stressful, leading to faster fitness burnout. Look instead for uplifting music and gentle coaching in your workouts.

Myth # 4

Fitness Equals a Fight Against Your Body: Sales pitches that encourage "shaving off the pounds" and busting your abs or your butt have solidified the image of fitness as a battle against your body. Fighting is not a sustainable activity or philosophy. Instead, think of partnering with your body. Meet it where it is at now and provide the environment and tools to reveal your body's best potential. When you take this approach, you set yourself up for success every step of the way.

Myth #5

Force Equals Fit: Today's popular exercise routines promote pounding your body into shape, but ancient fitness modalities such as yoga and tai chi had it right. Fitness is not about pumping the most iron or performing the most reps; it is about teaching your body how to move efficiently, using all your muscles groups, and sustaining these movements over time. Exercise including strength training should be approached as a gradual lifetime process. This way, exercise becomes a pleasure not a chore.

— Mirabai Holland (www.easyexercisevideos.com)