When it comes to fitness and health, many beliefs are deeply ingrained in our thinking, often accepted without ever questioning their accuracy. Sometimes it's worth acknowledging that certain "rules" may not offer the benefits we assume they do. That's why it's important to keep updating our personal perspective on how we treat our bodies and nurture our minds.
1. We All Have the Same 24 Hours in the Day
The assumption that everyone can equally prioritize fitness above all else fails to consider the diverse factors influencing our capacity to exercise. Work commitments, family duties, health conditions, and mental wellbeing all significantly shape how much time we can realistically give to physical activity. Rather than comparing yourself to others, focus on finding feasible ways to fit healthy habits into your own lifestyle. Customize your routine to your body and mind — ten consistent minutes a day beats zero, and it beats an unrealistic sixty.
2. Pregnancy Means the End of Athletic Participation
This belief often stems from historical concerns about risk and the physiological changes of pregnancy. Contemporary medical guidance instead emphasizes that staying active, when adapted to individual health and pregnancy status, can be supportive. Many women continue sport and exercise throughout pregnancy, finding it helps with cardiovascular health, muscular strength, and overall wellbeing. As always, any change to activity levels during pregnancy should be discussed with your healthcare professional, since individual circumstances vary.
3. A Low-Carbohydrate Diet Is the Key to an Ideal Body
Low-carb eating has grown hugely popular in recent years, and cutting back on refined carbohydrates may suit some people. But body composition is highly personal, shaped by total caloric intake, macronutrient balance, and activity level, among other factors. Rather than eliminating one macronutrient, a well-rounded diet built on a diverse range of nutrient-rich foods tends to be a more sustainable approach to long-term health. Moderation remains key to a balanced lifestyle.
4. Free Weights Are Always Best
Free weights or machines — this debate never really ends in the fitness community. Free weights are often favored for functional strength work since they engage stabilizing muscles, while machines can be useful for isolating specific muscle groups and offer helpful support for those new to strength training. In practice, combining both into a workout routine can give you a more well-rounded approach to building strength.
5. "Diet" Food Is the Only Way to Treat Yourself
Cheat meals get a lot of attention in fitness culture. To avoid "ruining" progress, many people give up food they enjoy in favor of zero-sugar, zero-fat alternatives. But you don't need to cut out flavorful food entirely, nor lean on heavily processed substitutes. Enjoying a treat now and then won't undo your training, and being overly strict with your diet rarely helps in the long run. Moderation is key to a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
6. Lack of Discipline Causes Obesity
Framing obesity as simply a discipline problem oversimplifies a complex issue. Genetics, environment, socioeconomic status, mental health, and access to resources all play a significant role in an individual's weight and overall health. Discipline can support healthy habits, but shame and blame are rarely as effective as empathy, support, and understanding when it comes to long-term wellbeing.
Building a Routine That Works for You
Recognizing and questioning fitness beliefs is an essential part of living a balanced life. The focus should be on a personalized, sustainable approach rather than quick fixes and trends — set meaningful goals, adjust as you go, and be kind to yourself along the way. Supporting your routine with the right daily care matters too: if mornings are part of your self-care ritual, browse the Garnier day routine or explore a day cream suited to your skin's needs. Expecting mothers building a gentler routine can also look through the Mother's Day special routine collection. For skincare staples from trusted pharmacy brands, check out La Roche-Posay, Vichy, and SVR. And if you'd rather have a routine curated for you, let us help you pick your routine. As always, check product labels and speak with a pharmacist or healthcare professional for guidance tailored to you.