The truth about bodybuilding myths

There are numerous myths surrounding the world of muscle gain and bodybuilding. One should take every myth with a pinch of salt and remain reasonably skeptical. Instead, do some research yourself and don’t depend on the word of others.

The Myths

Vegetarians are often said to be less able to build muscle. However, this is untrue. If strength training is undergone in combination with soy protein supplements, this can definitely increase body weight. Athletic performance is not hampered by a lack of meat intake. Using soy protein isolate as the sole protein source has been shown to be successful with regard to building lean muscle.

Working out does not allow you free reign when it comes to diet. A balanced diet is still necessary. Some involved in muscle gain feel that taking a week off from working out will mean a loss of muscle. This is not entirely true and in fact, it is recommended to take a week off in order to allow the muscle fibers to recover. It is also important to note that carbohydrates are just as important as proteins when it comes to building muscle mass. Building muscle depends on stimulating muscles beyond their normal levels of resistance as well as high calorie intake, of which carbohydrates are a great source.

One myth states that a large amount of repetitions will serve to burn fat, while employing a low-rep model will help you build muscle. The truth is that to reduce body fat, there must be an increase in calorie burning. High rep weight training does help with this, but it would be more effective to simply go running or jogging in order to do so. However, weight training does help burn calories and can help speed up metabolism, so it does have benefits for fat burning as well. Strength training also gives a cardio workout, contrary to a popular myth. Heart rate can be raised significantly during strength training. Ideally, aerobic exercise should be combined with low repetition training, which will help build muscle. Some may also believe that pain is a necessary indicator of the effectiveness of a workout. In truth, the fitter you are, the less pain you will experience after a work out.

Steroids will not increase muscle if you do not workout. They simply make the process faster. They do this by shortening recovery time and increasing strength. However, without food and stimulation, nothing will happen.

Another myth says that strength training can lead to a masculine appearance in women. However, if bulking up is not your intention, then it won’t occur. Bulking up requires increased food intake and a strict regime, so it can be avoided if desired. Additionally, testosterone levels will influence how much muscle you can gain, so in women, muscle growth will of course be lessened.