Debunking the Myths
When it comes to myths, every industry has them, including the health and fitness industry. Here's a few common ones still heard, after all these years!
Q: If I increase my weights, will I Iook muscle-bound?
A: Contrary to popular belief, you will not end up looking like Schwarzeneggar. What you are experiencing are your muscles 'flushing'- momentarily expanding to bring in more blood to feed the hard-working muscles. Also, your muscles are inflamed because they are torn (that's what gym workouts do - they tear the muscles so they get stronger the next time). This flush may last days or weeks.
Q: If I quit, won't my muscles will turn to fat?
A: Muscle is muscle, and fat is fat. One cannot become the other. Apples can't become oranges. Besides, you're not going to quit.
Many people who quit working out naturally get softer (and larger) because their fat-burning muscles are shrinking (remember, the more muscle on your body, the greater the ability to burn fat), hence their metabolic rate is decreasing.
Q: I want to just lose fat off my tummy. Can I spot reduce?
A: There is no such thing as 'spot reducing'. What you can do is build up the muscle in that one spot (ie the abs) and when the fat comes off the newly-toned muscle will show through. People gain differently. If you're lucky, you gain it evenly all over your body. Unfortunately, for many women, one part grows more than others (hips, tummy, butt). It all depends on your body type. Keep this in mind - the first to grow is the last to go. If you gain weight first on your tummy, then this will be the final hold-out place for the last remaining fat reserves to melt away. It's genetics.
Q: If I train like a man, won't I look like a man?
A: Who do you think started all this bodybuilding stuff? Arnold. Franco. Mike Mentzer. The men. Back then, women athletes adopted the mens' training regimes because there were no routines for women. Out of that came the most feminine women you'll ever see - Rachel MacLish, Cory Everson, Carla Dunlop - all bodybuilders and all extremely feminine.
Most female bodybuilders are either genetically gifted or supplement with dangerous drugs. This is where you see the man-like physiques. So don't worry and keep training hard. And you'll be more feminine than you every dreamed possible.
Don't be afraid to train with intensity. Sweat it out. Push hard. Your femininity will remain intact. I promise!