Weight-Loss Myths You Thought Were True

There’s a lot of information and misinformation out there about losing weight, and it can be hard to sort the myths from the facts. Take a closer look at some common weight loss myths and find out what really works to build muscle and lose fat.

Weight Loss Myth #1: You can’t lose weight because of genetics and a slow metabolism.

It’s true that genetics play some role in how your body burns calories or stores fat. However, it’s estimated that only 25% of your body weight is actually determined by your genes. Your behavior has the most significant impact on your weight. In fact, your behavior can even affect your body’s metabolism. If you build muscle through strength training, your body will naturally burn more calories, even when you’re at rest.

Weight Loss Myth #2: Women will bulk up if they lift weights.

Men have a higher muscle-building potential than women because of the testosterone hormone. Women who do strength training are more likely to build lean, toned muscles.

Weight Loss Myth #3: Spot-training will help you lose weight in specific areas.

Doing hundreds of sit-ups will help you strengthen your abdominal muscles, but it won’t give you a smaller waistline. In order to see results, you need to lose fat, and fat loss occurs all over your body gradually. If you want to shrink your stomach (or legs, or arms, or butt), the key is to exercise your entire body and modify your diet so you’ll lose body fat.