5 preconceived ideas about bodybuilding: we demystify them all!
When we talk about bodybuilding, do you think that muscles replace fat and that all you have to do is sit-ups to get a flat stomach?
Well, think again! I've put together a rundown of 5 common bodybuilding misconceptions that have held me back, so you don't make the same mistakes I did! Bythe end, you'll be as shocked as Jonathan Cohen.
Myth No. 1: Muscle replaces fat
Ah, if only it were that simple! Unfortunately, the idea that you can turn fat into muscle is a myth.
In reality, the processes of building muscle and losing fat are different and opposite. To build muscle, your body needs a caloric surplus, while to lose fat, you need to be in a caloric deficit. So, no, muscles don't replace fat.
However, they can help you burn fat more efficiently, and the more developed your muscles are, the more they need to draw on your resources to function.
Myth #2: Target the areas where you've lost the guy
Unfortunately, you won't lose belly fat by doing sit-ups every day.
Many people think they can target fat loss in a specific area of the body by exercising that area.
In reality, fat loss is generally global and depends on genetic and hormonal factors, so the ideal way to lose fat is to combine cardio and calorie deficit.
Myth no. 3: All you have to do is work on your abs to get a full tummy
Sorry to disappoint you, but abs are only one part of your abdominal area. Everyone has a six-pack, but it's often hidden under a layer of abdominal fat.
To bring it out, you need to reduce your body fat through healthy eating and adding cardio to your workouts, not just crunches.
Myth #4: More training = more muscles
Quality over quantity in bodybuilding. Too much training can actually hinder your progress by not giving your muscles enough time to recover and rebuild.
Training, recovery and a balanced diet are the keys to effective muscle development.
Myth n°5: Stretch after your workout to reduce muscle soreness
It's a common misconception! In fact, studies show that post-workout stretching has no significant effect on reducing muscle soreness.
Soreness is mainly caused by muscular microtrauma resulting from intense exercise, and stretching doesn't reduce this microtrauma - it can even accentuate it if you overload your muscle.
My advice is to stretch the day after your session, to relieve tension and relax your muscles.
By understanding the real principles of bodybuilding, you can achieve your goals more effectively and realistically. So forget the clichés and focus on achieving the optimal workouts to get the results you want!
