Fitness Myths…

Thank you Shape Magazine again and again for some great hints and continual inspiration…

Fitness Myth # 1
"I shouldn't overexert myself with tough workouts."

Experts are raving about the benefits of short, high-intensity routines (like intervals, where you alternate between going hard for 30 seconds to a minute and recovering at an easier level) for women of all ages. And it works with any type of cardio—biking, walking, running on the elliptical, rowing, and more. So nix the fitness myth and aim to add high-intensity intervals to your routine 2 or 3 times a week. Continually challenging your body is the best way to see results. Tough workouts are a must.

Fitness Myth #2
"Even strength training won't help my flagging metabolism."

While hormonal changes do contribute to a slower metabolism, a regular strength training regimen (2 or 3 times a week) will definitely help counteract the pound creep. Just keep challenging yourself with new moves, more resistance, and/or different types of lifting (like less rest and back-to-back sets). Strength training is a great way to keep your metabolism revved up.