The 5 myths of Strength Training

1.Strength training will turn you into the Hulk.

When I started training, I wanted my physique to become big and bulky. I thought I was already quite strong, but I found out pretty quickly that I had a lot of work to do! After several years of various gyms and training programmes I can push up, pull up and plank with more ease than I ever thought possible. I’m definitely stronger and leaner now, but not stockier than I was before.

2. Strength training is dangerous.

I was nervous when I started lifting weights as I knew nothing about how to lift technically. I figured I was bound to damage my back or strain muscles when lifting weights or doing chin-ups. This was not the case, I was limited by my initial strengths levels and with the right instruction from great trainers I managed to avoid any serious injuries and distorting my body since I started. If ever I had a little niggle I would research and ask my coach to show me some exercises to help iron out any pain.

3. Strength training is scary.

When I first started strength training I was pretty apprehensive about going into the weights area. Everyone seemed to speak a language I didn’t understand, flexing their muscles and performing the exercises effortlessly. But over time, I’ve enjoyed getting to know a great bunch of people and have became more comfortable in undertaking body weight classes at my own ability. Now, part of the fun of my training is sharing tips and ideas on health and fitness.

4. Strength training won’t help with other sports.

I’ve always been a strong guy, throwing things and never enjoyed running. During my more intense throwing training I was happy to find that strength and conditioning training improved my performance as an athlete. I’m more agile, my legs became significantly stronger and I developed a greater ability to push through pain, getting out of my comfort zone. I recently started practicing yoga to develop more body control and athleticism . My core is much stronger and my balance is greatly improved. I’m loving yoga as a complement to my training, stretching the muscles and calming my mind and body.

5. Strength training will wreak havoc on your self-esteem.

Over two years, I’ve pushed my body beyond its limits. I’ve taken on physical challenges. I’ve got my body to lift its own weight through some very challenging positions and move lots of heavy weights over my head. Somehow, after a tough workout, I feel I can take on whatever the world throws at me. This is called an endorphin rush and can become very addictive for most individuals. This lead me to train twice a day, before and after work, which gave me more energy and motivation to control my calorific intake and hydration levels.

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