3 Common Exercise Myths

Whether you’re an exercise buff, self-proclaimed “gym rat” or just like to keep active on a daily basis, you probably appreciate the health gains of a good exercise routine. A regular exercise routine can help reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer as well as increase energy levels and improve your mood. However, sometimes you may think you are exercising properly, but then — BAM! You end with an injury and all of your workout fun is put on hold.

To help you stay injury-free during workouts, don’t believe these three exercise myths!

1. No Pain, No Gain

It’s not uncommon for a good workout to leave you feeling sore the next day, but you shouldn’t feel like you need a body cast. If you’re new to working out or are just getting back into the swing of things, start off slow and ease into it. It’s not worth risking an injury.

Excessive pain after working out is a sign that there is a problem. In the event that you’re experiencing more pain than usual during or after workouts, you should consult your physician.

2. Static Stretching Before Working Out

While static stretching should still be part of your post-workout routine, dynamic stretching should be your focus at the start of a workout.

Dynamic stretching involves a full range of motion movement while static stretching extends and elongates your muscles to the end of their range of motion. Stretching cold, unpliable muscles with static stretches before your workout could cause an injury. So save the hamstring stretches for your post-workout and add dynamic alternating reverse lunges to your pre-workout.

You can also warm up with a few minutes of a lighter version of your intended routine. But whether you’re warming up before or stretching out after your workout, any amount of persistent pain should be taken up with a doctor.

3. Walking With Weights

Adding weights to your workout might seem like a good idea, since it does add an extra push in burning calories, but that’s really all. Beyond the minimal calories loss, using weights while walking can throw off your natural arm movement and gait. This can cause stress on your joints and pressure on your knees, hips, and back, leaving you vulnerable to an unwanted injury.

We love exercise! As a matter of fact, we have a whole fitness center dedicated to supporting individuals with medical conditions. Our medical fitness center also offers workout equipment and general health and wellness services to the entire community. So, if you're looking for something other than your average gym, come check out our premium amenities that you won't find anywhere else!