Old Fitness Adages: Bogus or Best Practice?
By Genevieve Cunningham
There are a million different sayings out there for just about everything. For kids, it’s that you’ll pay for your raising. For opportunities, it’s that you shouldn’t count your chickens before they hatch. No matter the occasion, you can bet that there is a piece of old advice that covers the situation, whether it’s right or wrong. And when it comes to health and fitness, the sayings and advice are abundant. But should you listen? If you’re stuck between old adages and new advice, take a look at these three old adages to determine whether they’re completely bogus or best practice for better health.
You Have to Feel the Burn
So many people will tell you that working out only works if you feel the burn or it hurts in some way. If you’re not hurting, you must not be doing it right. This old adage is more wrong than right, but it has a grain of truth. If you never feel challenged, there’s a good chance that you’re not working hard enough. But if you’re legitimately in pain, you’re probably working too hard or you have poor form. Work out with intensity and challenge yourself, but back off if pain is persistent.
You Are What You Eat
Everyone has heard this old adage. And if there’s any saying that rings true, this is definitely it. The food that you put in your body makes a huge impact on the overall health and state of your body and mind. If you fill it with junk, you’ll feel it. If you fill it with healthy food and plenty of water, you’ll feel that as well. Skip the junk food, soda, chips, and fried goods. Fuel your body with fruits and veggies, and you’ll notice positive side effects in every aspect of your life.
An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away
Once upon a time, this saying was the epitome of homegrown health advice. Is it true? While an apple can’t ward off all sickness in your life, it might actually boost your health. Apples are full of immune boosting Vitamin C. They’re also full of water, which means your body can stay hydrated and each system may be able to work more efficiently. Apples aren’t magic, but they’re a great addition to any healthy diet.
There’s nothing wrong with listening to old advice, but make sure you do your homework. Research and information has changed significantly over the years, and you’ll want to make sure that you’re getting the best advice out there. But with a little old and a little new, you may be able to piece together the best tips available to keep you in the best health possible for years to come.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Anaheim, Calif.