Fitness Trends

Going Too Far: The Scariest Fitness Trends of All Time

We can get pretty crazy about fitness. Every year seems to present new workout routines and diet plans, which are always more intense and more effective than last year’s batch. Getting in shape and looking healthy is all about pushing your body to new levels—but there are some trends today that push us a little too far. It’s great to push yourself and you should do something a little crazy every once in a while, but there are some workouts and diets out there that are just plain scary!!  We’re here to warn you of them.

Scary Diet Trends:

We’re constantly hearing about new diets that are supposed to be super effective and far better than those we pursued last year. Diet fads come and go as quickly as the seasons change, but does the inside scoop on nutrition really change that quickly?

The answer is no. The truth is, certain diet plans become trendy not because they are proven to be more effective than others, but because nutrition is a lucrative business. Nutritionists and diet pill manufacturers need to create considerable hype about their theories and products in order to do business. The best way for them to do that is to devalue their competition and elevate themselves as the number one solution to weight loss.  Lose 20 pounds, in 20 days with 20 dollars?  We don’t think so.

The scary thing about diet trends is that many plans market themselves as being more effective by taking an extreme approach. For example, some fad diets, such as the Caveman (or Paleo) Diet and the Zen Diet, forbid users from consuming certain types of food groups that are essential in everyday nutrition. While it is healthy to cut down on red meat, bread and dairy, these diets go above and beyond by erasing these food products from their meal plan all together.

What is best for your body is balance. People have been eating meat, grain and dairy for ages, so why stop now? While it’s important to take things in moderation, it’s equally critical to allow your body access to sufficient amounts of protein, carbohydrates and vitamins. If you’ve grown up eating steak, bread and yogurt, chances are you’re not going to be able to stop for any significant period of time. Your body craves those products because it needs them, so don’t worry about fad diets and give yourself what you need.

Scary Exercise Trends:

Eating well is only half the equation when it comes to health. Consistent exercise is a must if you want to look and feel great. However, similar to dieting, there are countless exercise fads that come and go on a regular basis.

The major exercise trends that get all the buzz tend to be the most extreme. While you should push yourself when you work out, some workouts are so extreme that they force you to push yourself beyond your own personal limits.

For example, doing rigorous, intense exercises such as plyometrics or long distance running (like marathons) in order to lose weight can have a detrimental effect on your body—especially if you’re just starting out. These types of workouts require a lot of movement that puts considerable pressure on your lower joints and muscles. If you are overweight, putting that kind of pressure on your body can increase your risk of injury. We tend to view jumping and running as basic activities that anyone is capable of doing. However, these types of movements are actually very advanced— if you’re not in shape prior to performing them you could hurt yourself.

Pain is highly glorified in the world of weightlifting, however this is an activity that should be approached in the same way as plyometrics or running. Working yourself to complete exhaustion is extremely dangerous. As your body fatigues, your form gets sloppy and you no longer have control over the weight. With poor form and lack of control, you face the serious threat of injury.  Yes, we love pushing you to your limits (and beyond!), we want you to keep your form at the same time.  Always have a spotter, coach or partner with you while lifting.

Although you are encouraged to push yourself when you exercise, make sure you don’t go too far. Pushing yourself beyond your personal limits can cause serious injuries, and that’s just plain scary.

Next time you think about trying out that new diet that’s all over the blogs or want to do something extreme at the gym, consider the consequences. Altering your diet and exercise routine is an exciting and inspirational time—not a time to be undernourished, overwhelmed, stressed and at risk for injury! Our Hitch Fit advice to you?  Stay true to yourself and avoid the scary stuff!!