I was reading a post online the other day from thepostgame.com about muscle myths debunked. I enjoyed the information, so I wanted to share it with you. Here are four myths about working out and gaining muscle that are false:
1. Muscle Confusion Builds Muscle – this method of training confuses your muscles so they can’t adapt to a specific training load. Unfortunately, if you want to build more muscle you will need to adapt to a specific load. Once you hit a plateau then you can alter reps, rest periods, or grip.
2. You Can Only Digest 25 grams of Protein at a time – this is false. Your body will eventually and slowly digest all of the protein you eat. It is not a good idea to eat too much protein at any given time due to its high level of acidity on a PRAL scale. Instead eat several small meals throughout the day that each contain some protein sources. Post workout shakes are great to get immediate protein into your body though.
3. Body-weight Workouts Can Make You Big – If all you do is push-ups and pull-ups, you can develop a very lean and muscular body. Unfortunately you will not develop very strong and big muscles. Your body weight can only take you so far. In order for your muscles to grow they need to stimulated by heavier loads.
4. Lifting to Failure is Good – not necessarily, especially if you get injured while doing it. It is better to skip the last set than to use bad form and struggle through it. Your body can then recover faster and be ready for the next workout.
I hope these tips help, I found them very imformative. Good luck with your workouts. Be safe, be smart, and have fun.
Dr Spencer Charlet
Chiropractor in Mooresville, NC
704-663-7625
