This post is sponsored by Future Fit Training.
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When it comes to health and fitness, the concepts of good and bad have become very complicated.
As far as diets go, one second we’re told that carbohydrates are healthy, the next they’re being villainised as the single worst thing for our waistline. It’s the same with eggs, sugar and dairy – and don’t even get us started on gluten.
When it comes to exercise, the advice is equally as divided and it’s left us in a state of confusion. Should I be kinder to my joints by running on the grass or the pavement? Am I supposed to be working out for 20 minutes or an hour?
Three Times A Week Or Five?
Partly, the muddle results from the business side of the flourishing health and fitness industry. Warnings about dangers are followed by supposed miracle solutions, a marketing tactic that’s been over-used.
But as one quick Google search will show, it’s also because there’s just too much advice. We’re inundated with it from all directions, experts and amateurs alike.
Separating the helpful from the harmful is important, but time-consuming. Here are the easiest signs to help you determine the quality content from the mediocre.
Personal Opinion V Fact
We all know someone who’s successfully ran a marathon – pride and sheer adrenaline has them on top of the world, and they dole out words of wisdom whether solicited or not. But just because they’ve had their own triumphs doesn’t mean they’re suddenly the world’s leading voice on long distance running.
Much of the content we read online is the same. Research and fact-checking is key to not falling for false promises and empty words. Surveys, quality newspaper articles and academic reports – the information is there. Instead of reading someone else’s take, form your own opinion.
Professional Background
Before taking any advice as gospel, check out the qualifications behind it. There are lots of very convincing amateurs with massive social media followings, but no actual professional merit. Nutritional and fitness accreditations should be clearly advertised.
Whilst you can learn from professionals, cutting out the middleman could be just the thing to build your confidence. There are lots of reputable fitness courses online that will let you develop your own expertise.
Social Media Sponsoring
Sponsorship is another tricky marketing trend that dilutes the quality of online health and fitness content. Kim Kardashian may be your body inspiration, but she’s recently come under fire for the dodgy sponsored posts cluttering her Instagram feed.
Spotting adverts on social media is easy. Any posts that aren’t a natural fit for the normal style of the source are likely to be sponsored, meaning they’re not based on fact or genuine personal experience so probably aren’t worth noting.
Getting fit and healthy is easier than ever thanks to a growing internet support system, but following bad advice could set you back, so remember to look for accredited and factual guidance.