Myth #7 - Always work out with free weights.

Free weights has always been a good instrument to build muscle if it is done correctly that is. For beginners and novice alike, it is best to start with the machines to build up the muscles. As you progress further, you can proceed with the free weights.

Free weights are the best tools to burn fat and gain strength. Because of the natural range of motion, the right muscles will be activated. As you become a seasoned weight lifter, free weights will be your obvious choice.

If you begin to start training on a new muscle area, it is best to use the right machine for that specific muscle area even though you are a seasoned lifter.

Myth #2 - If you eat more protein, you’ll build more muscle

There is only so much your body can absorb. If you're working out hard, consuming more than 0.9 to 1.25 grams of protein per pound of body weight is a waste.

Balance your intake into 3 parts carbohydrate and 1 part protein. Start eating a proper meal several hours later, this gives time for your body to absorb the carbo and protein. Then reverse that ratio in your snack after another few hours. This keeps high amino acids in your blood which is essential in your muscle building and recovery.

Tomorrow: Myth #3

Myths of Body Building - Myth #1

I did a presentation on bodybuilding myths some years back when I was in NS. I started doing weights when I was 16 and after that time, I have learnt a lot on bodybuilding. At the same time, I learned the common myths that people still believe are true. Even now, some of my friends still have certain misconceptions on bodybuilding.

For this week, I will list 7 Myths of bodybuilding. Before I move on to the myths of body building, let me explain what body building is.

Body building is - The process of developing the musculature of the body through specific types of diet and physical exercise, such as weightlifting, especially for competitive exhibition.


Myth #1 -Lifting incredibly slowly builds incredibly big muscles

Lifting weights slowly just tires your muscles, it doesn't build incredibly big muscles. University of Alabama researchers recently studied two groups of lifters doing a 29-minute workout. One group performed exercises using a 5-second up phase and a 10-second down phase, the other a more traditional approach of one second up and one second down. The faster group burned 71 percent more calories and lifted 250 percent more weight than the super slow lifters.

The best way is to lift rapidly and lower slowly. There's greater potential for growth during the lowering phase, and when you lower with control, there's less chance of injury.

Tomorrow: Myth #2