What Are False Beliefs?
False belief patterns are misconceptions resulting from incorrect reasoning.
Previous experiences shape your belief patterns for future scenarios. Belief patterns shape and protect us. You can think of them as a large defensive line that appears as similar solutions to previous problems in which you have failed, are being introduced. In some ways, they can protect you from wasting your time and having an additional negative experience. On the other hand, they can prevent you from achieving great success.
False Belief #1: “I need to set aside a lot of Time to Enjoy the Full Mental and Physical Health Benefits of Exercise”
Despite this being a very common belief within the fitness industry, this is not true. We can create the same, if not, greater results by exchanging exercise volume for greater exercise intensity. The greater your level of effort during the workout, the less volume you will require resulting in a lower total workout time. If performed correctly, 30 minutes of working out will be all you need to stay fit, healthy, as well as boost the production of your happy chemicals.
For more information on saving time with your workout by exchanging intensity for volume, you can read more in this article – Workouts for Busy Professionals: The Quick 30-Minute Workout Week
False Belief #2: “I place myself at greater Risk for Injury when Performing Intense Exercise”
I know, the therm “High Intensity Training” may sound a bit threatening. It may lead you to believe that your limbs must have to fly uncontrollably through the air, that the experience is excruciating and that you must be at an increased risk for injury.
The term intensity solely refers to the amount of work you are performing. There is no mention of speed. By getting the intensity from lower speed, our movements during exercise will be more controlled and we are able to reach the same end-goal of each exercise – muscular fatigue.
In fact, Dr. Doug McGouff (emergency doctor and high-intensity resistance coach) states in his book “Body by Science” that high-intensity exercise is considered to be safer than low-intensity exercise. By engaging in high intensity exercise, our bodily structures (muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, etc.) adapt to the stressors you expose them too. They will become more resilient to external and internal forces. You will be less likely to suffer from chronic overuse injuries and your cardiovascular health will improve more significantly.
*Always remember*: Your body will not create internal forces higher than what your structures are capable of withstanding. In other words – you are not causing any bodily damage by engaging in high-intensity training if performed in a controlled manner.
Quote of the Week
*Disclaimer*
I suggest that you speak to your doctor before starting any high intensity program. If you are worried that a high-intensity program may cause a flare up or worsen a current physical injury, speak to your physical therapist before starting an exercise program