We’re a culture that loves a snappy saying, especially when it comes to a complex topic like personal health. Take a big, nuanced concept and simplify it to a memorable adage that’s easy to understand (bonus points for using rhyming or alliteration), and we’re all in. The phrase can become anything from a common philosophy to a tagline for a t-shirt or an Instagram caption. Over time, these sayings are now oversimplified myths about fitness.
But just because a piece of advice sounds clever doesn’t mean it’s valid or useful. Some of the oldest and most widely-used adages can be dangerous and even harmful when they are applied to nutrition, training and the life on the trails.
With the help of a few qualified experts, we debunked some of those questionable “words of wisdom” You can also find out more about us on our website.’ve likely heard from coaches, trainers, influencers, and fellow backpackers. (Let’s be real—you You may have used one or more phrases in the past. What percentage of these phrases were off the mark? You may be surprised.
“No pain, no gain.”
The grandfather of misguided mottos, “No pain, no gain,” has been uttered through gritted teeth on gym floors, playing fields, and trails for decades. It became…
