When it comes to losing weight, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions out there. It can be overwhelming trying to figure out what’s true and what’s not.

There are three common myths about burning fat that we’re going to debunk right now.

Myth 1: Cardio is the best way to burn fat

Cardio certainly does burn calories, which can lead to weight loss. However, cardio alone is not the most effective way to burn fat.

Strength training builds lean muscle mass, which increases your metabolism and helps your body burn more calories throughout the day. High-intensity interval training, or HIIT, combines both cardio and strength training and has been shown to be more effective at burning fat than traditional cardio alone.

Myth 2: You can spot-reduce fat

Many people believe that doing exercises that target specific areas of the body, such as crunches for the abdominal area, will help them lose fat in that area. Unfortunately, spot-reducing fat is not possible.

Your body decides where it stores fat and where it burns fat from first. Doing exercises that target a specific area may strengthen the muscles in that area, but it won’t necessarily burn the fat there.

Myth 3: Eating less is the best way to lose weight

While it’s true that you need to create a calorie deficit to lose weight, simply eating less is not always the best approach.

Your body needs a certain amount of calories to function properly, and if you don’t eat enough, you can actually slow down your metabolism and make it harder to lose weight. Additionally, if you’re not getting enough nutrients from your food, you may feel lethargic and may not have the energy to exercise, which is crucial for weight loss.

Focusing on eating nutrient-dense, whole foods and finding a calorie deficit that works for your body is a better approach.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to burning fat and losing weight, there are a lot of misconceptions out there. Remember that strength training, HIIT, and a balanced diet are all important components of a successful weight loss plan.

Don’t believe the myths – focus on what works for your body and your goals.