simple movements such as arm circles and leg swings. She notes, “Stretching can help to improve posture and flexibility, plus reduce overall stress.”
Myth 9: Crunches Cut Belly Fat
There’s no such thing as spot reducing. While crunches strength- en abdominal muscles, they will not shrink your waistline, says Karp. Instead, try exercises such as squats, lunges and yoga plank holds or kettlebell repetitions to lose stubborn belly fat.
Myth 10: Women Using Weights Get Bulky
The truth is that most weightlifting women won’t end up with a big, bulky physique because they have less testosterone, are smaller in size and have less muscle tissue than men, advises Matthews. “Any kind of strength training will help improve bone density, increase muscle mass and decrease body fat in both men and women.”
Myth 11: Exercise is Hard
Physical activity should be fun. It’s best to start simply, add a variety of physical activities and challenges and keep at it. Schedule time for exercise and treat it like any other daily appointment; don’t cancel it. Alexander Cortes, a nation- ally certified strength and conditioning coach with Ulti- mate Fighting Championship Gym, in Corona, California, concludes, “When health is a priority, exercise is the most important appointment you can keep.”
Lynda Bassett is a freelance writer near Boston, MA. Connect at
LyndaBassett.com.
natural awakenings
March 2013
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