American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance - AAHPERD

 Issue: October 2008

Myths and Truths from Exercise Physiology
H. Scott Kieffer

Abstract:
This article addresses some of the common myths in the field of exercise physiology. Some of the myths are misconstrued facts that have developed over time, such as the myth of localized fat reduction. Other myths are unproved or collective beliefs used to justify a social institution; we see this occur in the form of “fitness fads.” Society is always on the lookout for the latest revolution in fitness when, in reality, they are missing the basic, functional, and reliable methods that already exist. The renewed interest in functional fitness and the gap in scientific literature have prevented professionals from fully evaluating the short- and long-term benefits of these programs. It is important for professionals to be able to separate fact from fiction by keeping up with the ever-changing trends and staying up to date with the latest research.

Article category: Hogzilla or Hogwash? Separating Fact from Fiction in Physical Education and Sport