Debunking 6 of the Most Common Myths About Bodybuilding

Depending on your fitness goals, you may need to focus on various physical routines and workout types to achieve your desired results. No exception to this is bodybuilding, which requires a combination of weight training, cardio, and nutrition.

How is Body Building Different to General Fitness?

At its core, bodybuilding is a different class of fitness training. As the name suggests, it involves “building the body” to increase strength, size, and definition. This is achieved through well-planned and regular weight lifting, bodyweight exercises, and cardio. It also requires a strict diet plan tailored to the individual’s needs. Achieving the desired bodybuilding results takes time, dedication, and consistency, so one must stick by these principles to see results. Like any field that requires intense commitment, bodybuilding has some misconceptions that deter people from participating. For this reason, we will debunk some of these myths.

#1 – Building Muscle and Burning Fat Simultaneously Is Impossible

The idea that it isn’t possible to simultaneously build muscle and burn fat is a common misconception in bodybuilding. However, this is not necessarily true. This is primarily due to the notion that the two processes are mutually exclusive and require different approaches.

It is possible to both build muscle and burn fat at the same time. Creating a balanced exercise and nutrition plan is critical. You can incorporate weight training and cardio into your routine. Weight training is excellent for building muscle, while cardio helps burn fat. You can adjust your diet to include protein and healthy fats.

#2 – You Cannot Be Ripped All-Year Round

The idea that it is impossible to stay ripped all year round is a common misconception in the fitness world. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to achieve and maintain a ripped physique, but staying ripped all year round is possible.

Metabolism is vital because our metabolism slows down as we age, making it more challenging to burn fat and build muscle. To combat this, you must adjust your diet and exercise routine to include healthy, nutritious foods and plenty of cardio and strength training. Eating a balanced diet high in protein and low in processed foods and refined sugars is also essential.

#3 – Taking Supplements Is Always Necessary

Many believe that taking supplements is always necessary for bodybuilding. This is generally not the case because supplements should only be used to supplement a healthy diet and exercise routine, not replace them.

Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly are the foundations for any successful bodybuilding program and should be the focus of any bodybuilder’s routine. Supplements can boost energy, help build muscle, and improve recovery time after a workout. Still, they should not be used as a substitute for eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.

#4 – All Bodybuilders Use Steroids and Other Performance-Enhancing Drugs

Bodybuilding is a demanding sport that requires dedication, hard work, and a healthy lifestyle. While some bodybuilders use steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) to gain an edge over their competitors, most do not.

The use of PEDs is illegal in many countries and is considered cheating. It can also be dangerous and can lead to serious health issues. Some short-term side effects of steroids include increased aggression, mood swings, and depression. Long-term side effects include liver damage, heart problems, and infertility.

Watch this video which covers how YNF tests competitors and athletes during competitions and what they are banned substances:

https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/808967942

#5 – Clean Bulk Will Prevent Fat Gains

“Clean bulking” refers to a diet and exercise plan to help you build lean muscle while minimising fat gains. Many believe clean bulking will prevent fat increases, which it does not. While clean bulking is a great way to reach fitness goals, it does not guarantee you will not gain fat.

The reality is that bulking up requires an increase in calories, and if you’re not careful, you may eat more than you need and gain fat. In addition, if you’re not doing resistance training or weightlifting, you will be unable to build muscle and will instead gain fat.

The best way to ensure you don’t gain fat while bulking is to ensure you eat the right amount of calories and that your diet consists of mostly healthy, whole foods. This will help you get the nutrients you need to build muscle while also helping to avoid overeating. Additionally, you should be doing some resistance training or weightlifting. This will help you build muscle, power and strength, which can help you reach your goals faster.

#6 – Building Muscle Does Not Always Require Heavy Lifting

Contrary to popular belief, building muscle does not require heavy lifting. While heavy lifting can help you build muscle and strength, it is not the only way. The truth is that you can build muscle with lighter weights and higher repetitions. This is because lighter weights put less strain on your body, which can be beneficial if you are starting out. This type of training helps you build muscle by increasing your endurance and strength.

In addition to lighter weights, you can also use bodyweight exercises to build muscle. Bodyweight exercises, such as push-ups, pull-ups, and squats, are great for building muscle and strength because they work your entire body. This type of training also helps you build a strong foundation of muscle and strength, which can help you progress to heavier weights.

Conclusion

Bodybuilding is an excellent fitness activity that can yield more benefits than drawbacks. Anyone serious about building muscle should consider incorporating bodybuilding into their exercise routine, but it must be done correctly. This way, you can maximise your gains while minimising the risk of injuries.

If you want to join a bodybuilding competition, YNF is here for you! Professional trainers can help you transform your body into competition-ready. Contact us today at contact@ynf.com.au, and we’ll help you with your questions.