Fitness methods that promote long…lean muscles…Oh boy does this one get me! As an exercise physiologist I have learned enough about anatomy and muscle physiology to know this is quite IMPOSSIBLE!! This is a marketing tactic that is made to target women that are afraid weights will make them “bulky”. For the last 30 years I have received training in Pilates and other methods, and have enjoyed learning them all! In that, I direct my clients to do any type of exercise they enjoy and will continue to do!! But I also let the truth be known, when they come to me and say they want smaller, longer and leaner muscles, what do I do?? Here’s what you need to know about this myth, in a nutshell.
#1) Longer muscles. Our muscles cannot get longer than they are. No method of training can alter the length of your muscles. You can have tight muscles that need to be stretched, but it does not elongate them.
#2) Lean muscles. All muscle is lean, so this doesn’t make sense. Even though there can be small amounts of fat in muscle tissue, this is not enough to be seen.
I think these promises are confusing to even the smartest of people. Most of my clients and friends come to me wanting the same thing. A leaner, stronger body. Less body fat and more muscle, as they get older. Toned and lean, not big like a bodybuilder. So, if you are looking for the leaner, toned body, then the best method to get you there would be one where you would gain muscle and lose fat. Strength training is the best way to achieve this. Remember men, you lose muscle as you get older also!! So….no gimmicks or fads!! It takes hard work to build muscle and women don’t gain it that easy, but it can be done! T lean out your diet needs to be right also. Real whole foods, not processed. More home cooked meals with fresh veggies and raw foods! Get rid of anything processed, sugars and any chemicals (fake sugars). “Baby steps”, I tell my clients. Any good change is a step in the right direction!
I do get frustrated with gimmicks that deceive people…so please do your research! So much deception out there! I care about my clients and I believe in telling them the truth. So, get in your strength training 3 times a week and don’t be fooled by myths…. Now, when you hear someone trying to sell you a method of training, that will get you long, lean muscles like a ballerina…you can say… “see you later!!” Pick up your weights, nourish your body with whole foods and lots of fresh water and let the transformation begin!! Comments welcome!!
Elissa XOXO
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