500-Word Feature: Fitness IQ Test Your Fitness Knowledge in This Feature That Challenges

500-word feature

[head] Fitness IQ

[deck] Test your exercise knowledge with our true/false quiz

When it comes to exercise, there are certain accepted truths: It helps us lose weight, strengthen our heart muscles and even boosts our mood. But all fitness knowledge certainly isn’t black or white. Years of marketing gimmicks promoting the “latest craze” have made us somewhat jaded about the power of a workout. What can exercise really do—and not do—for our bodies? Let’s test our fitness knowledge and find out if we’re mentally in shape when it comes to physical fitness.

True or False:

Hitting the Spot: If I work hard enough on my stomach, then I can get rid of the fat. False. No matter how many fitness infomercials and Hollywood trainers tell you that you can “spot reduce,” you simply can’t decrease the fat on a specific area of your body through exercise. Aerobic exercise and strength training build muscle and reduce fat gradually all over your body. Even though sit-ups alone won’t decrease stomach fat, don’t dismiss them—they’ll still help tighten the muscle beneath the fat.

Timing Isn’t Everything: It doesn’t matter what time of day I exercise. True. Although some studies indicate that a higher body temperature and hormones in late afternoon can enhance calorie burning, not all physicians agree. However, the more critical issue is lost in the debate over morning versus evening workouts. What actually matters is that you exercise. Find a routine that works best for your personal schedule and stick with it.

Going Solo: The best way to get fit is to do it alone. Since I got myself into this, I’m the only one who can get myself out of it, right? False. Many people who struggle to get fit subscribe to this philosophy. And while you are the only one who can make the choice to get in shape, the process of actually doing it—sticking to a routine—isn’t as simple as the initial decision. According to the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, having a supportive social network “has been consistently and positively related to regular physical activity.” So enlist your loved ones in your battle, or at least let them know what you’re trying to achieve and how they can help you reach your goals. When making plans with friends, schedule an afternoon walk instead of a meal at a restaurant. You know what’s best for you, but having someone to share your successes and struggles can keep you accountable and help you through the tough times.

[CTA] What’s Your Plan? Clearly, the most important fact to remember about exercise is that you have to actually do it— and you have to be consistent. A great way to stay on top of your fitness routine is to have a plan from the start. To create a personalized exercise plan that will help you reach your fitness goals, visit Healthy Lifestyles at EmpireBlue.com today.

SOURCES: http://www.fitness.gov/resources_factsheet.htm http://www.fitnessforlife.org/HighSchool/student/11/8/index.cfm http://www.cnn.com/2003/HEALTH/diet.fitness/05/27/exercise.time/index.html