In my last few posts, I’ve attempted to cut through misconceptions about fitness and fitness trends to better educate you and help you get more out of your workouts. There really isn’t anything more frustrating than spending tons of money and time on something and not seeing results. Throughout the upcoming year I’ll continue to try dispel fitness myths, but with the New Year here and resolutions fresh, I thought I’d focus on the positive and provide some fitness facts to help motivate you in the new year. 

Fact 1

Take a guess: what’s the largest muscle in your body? Is it your quads? Your heart? Nope…it’s your booty! Well, the gluteus maximus muscle, to be more exact. Which explains why we focus so much on your glutes here at Fitness on the Run. Interestingly, though, your glutes may not be the strongest muscle in your body. Your calf muscles actually produce the most force, your jaw muscle exerts the most pressure, and your quads are certainly up there in terms of workload. For more cool facts about your muscles, check out this article. 

Fact 2

After turning 30, you lose about one pound of lean muscle mass each year. To combat this, back off the cardio and add strength training (weight lifting or resistance training) two to three times a week. This doesn’t mean you should stop cardio training, but consistent strength training as we age is more important to your overall health. 

Fact 3

On days you can’t swing a 45 or more minute session, focus on increasing your heart’s health with quick workouts that still get your heart rate up, even 10 to 15 minutes can be more than enough. A strong heart means the blood can flow more quickly and future workouts will be easier. 

Fact 4

Roughly 69 percent of men consider themselves physically fit, but in reality, only about 13 percent are actually physically fit. So, ladies, you’re free to roll your eyes when your significant other tries to explain that he’s in shape. And guys, let’s face it, we aren’t as fit as we once were. So how about we do something about it? My personal goal is to try to remain fit enough to hang with my kids as they work their way through high school sports (which is going to be tough since my youngest is 7 and I’m barely hanging with the older ones now!). 

Fact 5

If you’re reading this, you’ve likely stepped foot in a gym or gymnasium. Did you know that gymnasium gets its root from the Greek word gymnazein, which means to exercise naked? Now that would make for an interesting trip to the gym! 

Fact 6

And my favorite fitness fact: anyone, at any time, no matter your current fitness level, can start exercising today to become healthier tomorrow. Don’t let past "failures" dissuade you from trying again. There’s an exercise program/routine out there for everyone. You just need to find the one that’s right for you. If you’ve been frustrated in the past by dull routines or lack of results, check out Fitness on the Run. Our three personal training session for $99 is a great deal and from session number one you’ll see the advantages of full-body functional training that focuses on form and technique rather than pushing you to exhaustion.