Exercise Myths...

Ok so I hope everyone is feeling more alive now that Spring is in full swing :) I personally always feel much more motivated to work out even harder this time of year- we're breaking out the shorts and the tank tops and it doesn't hurt to add a little tone to our bodies right? So here are some things I've learned over the years...

1) Don't be afraid of strength training- this is basically working out with weights. Many women don't want to bulk up so they steer clear of the free weight area of the gym. Let me assure you- unless you're bench pressing 200 I can guarantee that you will only tone your muscles not bulk up.

2) When we use free weights or the weight machines at the gym we are also building strength. And I know that it's sort of a myth that men should want to build up their muscles but i'm telling you ladies- wouldn't it be nice to not struggle carrying in the heavy groceries? At Kohls i'm always lifting heavy boxes and carrying around pounds and pounds of clothing (can i hear an amen misses girls?!) I have noticed a huge improvement since i've been working out my arms. I can lift more for longer periods of time. Which is crucial when you're at work!

3) The more muscle we have the more calories we burn at rest- i've probably said that a thousand times now but it's true. Wouldn't you prefer to burn 100 calories sitting on the couch as opposed to 25? Well the more muscle on your body, the more blood has to flow to keep those muscles getting oxygen. This burns more calories than fat because fat doesn't need any oxygen. Have you ever seen those women who work out all the time with big fat veins running down their arms? That happens after a lot of strength training- the muscles need that constant blood supply and so the veins get bigger!

4) Lastly, I never want you to think that if you don't look like Jillian Michaels or some of those other trainers out there that you're not good enough. HECK NO! Can i just say that I know a lot of you out there are much stronger than you think! You have so much energy in you and the more you channel that energy into staying healthy... the better you will look and most importantly the better you will FEEL.

So keep going at it girls! Fire up that inner motivation and channel your energy into this. It is so key to living a long health filled life. Try something new this week, maybe you want to get a workout video- Pick something you're interested in. I love kickboxing LOVE IT! Maybe you'll prefer dance or a Zumba DVD. There is so much out there, but just get moving!