Active4 winter fitness myths that we need to sack off this season, say these expertsThey drive us (and these experts) crazy!When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Active4 winter fitness myths that we need to sack off this season, say these expertsThey drive us (and these experts) crazy!When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
They drive us (and these experts) crazy!
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
(Image credit: Getty Images)
To try and help you from making any silly assumptions this season, we spoke to four experts who’ve debunked some of the most common winter fitness myths, to help you with training and stay on track.
‘You’ll get ill running in the cold’
(Image credit: Getty Images)
(Image credit: Getty Images)
At this time of year, it can be tempting to stay snuggled up indoors, rather than lace up yourrunning shoesand brave the cold in fear of getting ill. But, actually, exercising outdoors in the winter is perfectly fine. “It won’t make you ill, so grab your gloves, pop on your hat, and get out there!,” says Hannah Walker, co-founder ofBimble and Bolt.
“Running in colder months is safe and healthy when wearing sensible clothing to stay warm and dry. Layering up with moisture-wicking fabrics and changing out of wet clothes immediately after a run is key. It’s also a good idea to take a hot shower or bath soon after to warm your numb nose and chilly toes."
‘You can eat whatever you like during a bulk’
(Image credit: Getty Images)
(Image credit: Getty Images)
It’s that time of year when, particularly bodybuilders, begin awinter bulkto pack on more meat and muscle, as shorts are out and baggy tees are in. However, people can often fall into the trap of eating too many calories and too many meals that hold no nutritional value. “Eating 5,000 calories of junk food a day is not going to turn you into Dwayne Johnson, that’s for sure,” says Steve Chambers, a Certified Personal Trainer atUltimate Performance.
“The macronutrients and health benefits of eating 3,500 calories a day of lean proteins, good quality carbs and healthy fats, compared to eating 3,500 calories a day of pizza, are chalk and cheese – if you pardon the pun. A ‘dirty bulk’ will add size to your frame, for sure, but it will also add unwanted fat to almost every part of your body.”
‘Hydration isn’t as important’
(Image credit: Getty Images)
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
“This therefore puts you at a higher risk of suffering from dehydration effects, which could lead to a decrease in performance through muscle cramps, energy inefficiency, decreased mobility, flexibility and, in extreme cases, to heath exhaustion or even kidney problems. Make sure you drink small amounts or fluid at regular intervals during exercise, especially in the winter.”
‘You can sweat out your illness at the gym’
(Image credit: Getty Images)
(Image credit: Getty Images)
People like to think the same applies to alcohol after a big night out, but it seems neither thetreadmillor doing some heavysquatswill help with either. “It’s scientifically impossible I’m afraid, you cannot ‘sweat out’ a virus or an illness,” confirms Aroosha Nekonam, a Certified Personal Trainer atUltimate Performance.
“Sweating is your body’s natural response when your body is overheating, but you do not expel a virus through sweat. Exercise acts as a stressor on the body and, when you’re well and fighting fit, your body can cope with this stress. But if you’re ill, and your immune system is compromised, then putting your body through the trauma of even more stress is going to further deplete your energy reserves. It will also put further strain on your immune system, delay your recovery and potentially leave you susceptible to further infection.”
Build bigger arms in just 30 minutes with this 5-move dumbbell-only workoutIt’ll leave the biceps and triceps popping!
It’ll leave the biceps and triceps popping!
OMEGA puts the moon on your wrist with its new Speedmaster Moonphase MeteoriteOMEGA adds two new Moonphase Meteorite watches to its Speedmaster line-up
OMEGA adds two new Moonphase Meteorite watches to its Speedmaster line-up
R.A.D unveils the next generation of its iconic workout shoe with a redesigned upper and more cushioningThe first look at the R.A.D One V2 is officially here with a fresh new look and various tweaks
The first look at the R.A.D One V2 is officially here with a fresh new look and various tweaks
Normatec Premier review: wireless compression for hassle-free recoveryThe Normatec Premier compression boots use integrated air pumps and eliminate external hoses to make recovery easier than ever
The Normatec Premier compression boots use integrated air pumps and eliminate external hoses to make recovery easier than ever
Pilates vs weight training: what are they and what’s best for you?Beginners will benefit massively from both approaches to strength training, but each has its merits and downfalls
Beginners will benefit massively from both approaches to strength training, but each has its merits and downfalls
Full-body workouts versus push-pull-legs: which is best for maximal muscle gain?Discover which of these two popular training programmes is best for you and your end goals
Discover which of these two popular training programmes is best for you and your end goals
Callisthenics versus weight training: Do you need fancy equipment to build a great body?Bodyweight is a powerful tool in building muscle. We run down the key differences between these two training styles
Bodyweight is a powerful tool in building muscle. We run down the key differences between these two training styles
Push-pull-legs vs. upper/lower body workouts: which split is best?Maximise exercise volume to pack on serious muscle with these time-saving workout options
Maximise exercise volume to pack on serious muscle with these time-saving workout options
Strength training vs. bodybuilding: What’s the difference and what’s best for you?Here’s everything you need to know about building muscle and improving strength
Here’s everything you need to know about building muscle and improving strength
Get Fit 2025: T3’s ultimate fitness, diet and exercise tips to help you get in shape this yearKickstart your fitness journey in 2025 with our guide to workouts, diet tips, and sustainable strategies that will help you get stronger, feel healthier, and stay motivated all year long
Kickstart your fitness journey in 2025 with our guide to workouts, diet tips, and sustainable strategies that will help you get stronger, feel healthier, and stay motivated all year long
