By Kathleen Clove, KSL | Posted – Feb. 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.
As we step into a new year, many Americans find themselves embarking on a common journey: the quest for better health and fitness. According to the Health & Fitness Association, 2026's most popular New Year's resolution centers around improving exercise routines and overall wellness. At the forefront of this movement in Holladay, Utah, is Xcel Fitness, a private gym that has been guiding and supporting locals in their fitness endeavors for over a decade.
The Challenge of Myths
However, the road to fitness remains littered with misconceptions and myths that often deter individuals from pursuing their goals. Nate Brown, the owner of Xcel Fitness, along with his dedicated trainers, is on a mission to debunk these inaccurate beliefs that plague many aspiring fitness enthusiasts.
"The '70s and '80s brought us a lot of very poor one-liners," Brown remarked, referring to the outdated fitness ideologies that still influence people today. For example, common phrases like “no pain, no gain” or belief systems that suggest gyms are indifferent to members' success continue to circulate, leading many to abandon their wellness aspirations prematurely.
10 Common Fitness Myths Busted
Throughout our discussion, the trainers at Xcel highlighted ten prevalent myths about fitness that are keeping potential gym-goers from reaching their desired heights:
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Exercise is Too Hard: Many believe that working out requires an all-or-nothing commitment. In reality, starting slow, such as simply walking into the gym, can be a significant first step.
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You Must Train Intensely Right Away: “A lot of people think you have to go 10 out of 10 right out of the gates,” said Mike Rosas, director of personal training. The key is starting where you are and gradually increasing effort.
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Gyms Only Care About Money: Contrary to popular belief, many gyms, including Xcel Fitness, prioritize the well-being and success of their members, offering support and community.
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All Workouts Were Created Equal: Not every workout program suits every individual. Finding a personalized plan that fits one’s lifestyle is essential for sustained success.
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Weightlifting Makes You Bulky: There's a pervasive myth that lifting weights leads to unwanted bulk, particularly among women. However, strength training can help build lean muscle and improve overall health.
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You Have to Spend Hours in the Gym: Short, more intense workouts can be just as effective as longer sessions. Quality over quantity is paramount.
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You Can Spot Reduce Fat: While everyone has targeted areas they wish to improve, the notion that fat can be lost from specific body parts through targeted exercises is misleading.
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Cardio is the Best Way to Lose Weight: While cardiovascular exercise is important, a balanced approach of strength training and cardio usually yields better results.
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Supplements Are Essential for Results: Many people think they need supplements to see progress, but a well-rounded diet typically provides all necessary nutrients.
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You’ll Feel Great Immediately: Fitness is a journey; expect ups and downs as your body adjusts. Patience is vital in seeing improvements.
Motivation is Key
To help individuals stay motivated, the trainers at Xcel encourage their clients to embrace the journey, tailoring workouts to fit personal schedules and preferences. The goal, they say, is to cultivate a sustainable routine that balances fitness with real life.
“A lot of people stop because they get overwhelmed and set goals too high,” Brown explained. By fostering a supportive community and realistic goal-setting, Xcel aims to break down these barriers.
For anyone looking to embark on their fitness journey in 2026, this advice remains golden: The essential first step is simply to take action. Whether it’s walking through the gym doors or making a small change at home, every little step counts.
Conclusion
As we look forward to a year of health and fitness, seeking out reliable information and advice is crucial for success. Debunking these common myths not only clears the path for a more effective fitness journey but also empowers individuals to embrace their pursuit of wellness with confidence.
To see more about how these strategies are being implemented and to find inspiration for your fitness journey, watch the informative video linked above, where Xcel trainers share their insights on overcoming these myths.
