These days, you can’t go anywhere without hearing about a new weight loss breakthrough. A pill, a cream or a new fad diet æ you name it and it’s going to solve all of your weight loss problems in 30 days or less. Or not. The truth is that most of the things you hear about weight loss are hype. Here are five myths about weight loss:Myth No. 1: You can spot reduce fat from specific areas of your body.In reality, your body will lose weight wherever it wants. It’s safe to assume that you’ll lose fat the last place on and the first place off. So, if you put on weight in your thighs first and then on your waist, expect it to come off your waist first and then your thighs.Myth No. 2: You have to count calories for weight loss.There are so many fad diets out there that paint a picture that weight loss is a complicated process. You have to eat certain foods at certain times and avoid other foods at all costs. The truth is that weight doesn’t have to be a science. Simply eat healthy, fresh foods that haven’t been processed, and eat smaller amounts than you’re eating today.Myth No. 3: You will bulk up with resistance training.The process of bulking your muscles takes a lot of hard work. You have to consume high amounts of protein, and you have to consistently tax your muscles to fatigue. And you need the male hormone testosterone coursing through your body. There is no way to accidentally bulk up.Myth No. 4: You can get a six-pack from crunches.Focusing on crunches will not make your midsection chiseled. Abdominal crunches are great, and you should do them, but don’t rely on them to get into great shape. A trim midsection will only come as a result of proper nutrition, effective cardio and consistent resistance training.Myth No. 5: Cardiovascular training is the most important exercise for fat loss.Most people think of cardiovascular activities when they think of working out æ going for a run, riding a stationary bike or taking an aerobics class. Times have changed and so should your workout. The benefits of resistance training now trump straight cardiovascular training. Resistance training strengthens your heart while toning muscles and increasing bone density. Cardio workouts are not completely a thing of the past; they should fit into your overall plan for health and wellness. The benefits of resistance training, especially in fat loss, are significant.Do you have other weight loss beliefs that simply aren’t delivering results? Discover the truth, and create a fitness and fat loss program that will give you the body you deserve.David Corder NSCA-CPT- www.perfectfitwc.comRECIPE OF THE MONTHRosemary Lamb ChopsThis recipe pulls tantalizing flavor from rosemary, garlic and pepper. Broiling is a healthy cooking method because it does not require added fat. Remember to trim any visible fat from the meat before cooking. Servings: 4?Here’s what you need…8 (4oz) loin lamb chops, trimmed of fat1/2 cup dry red wine2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce1 teaspoon dried rosemary leaves4 garlic cloves, mincedFreshly ground black pepper1/4 teaspoon saltHeat broiler.Generously pierce lamb chops with fork. Place in shallow dish; add wine. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes to marinate.In a small bowl combine Worcestershire sauce, rosemary and garlic; mix well. Set aside. Remove lamb from marinade; discard marinade.Place lamb on broiler pan. Spoon half of sauce mixture evenly over chops; sprinkle generously with pepper.Broil 4 to 6 inches from heat for 4 to 5 minutes or until browned. Turn chops. Spoon remaining sauce over lamb; sprinkle with pepper. Cook an additional 4 to 5 minutes or to desired doneness. Sprinkle lamb with salt.Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 190 calories, 9g fat, 1g carbohydrate, 0g fiber, and 26g protein.
