Want the skinny on getting fit? Personal trainers from The Sports Club/LA expose five common workout myths. MYTH Cardiovascular exercise is the only way to lose fat. FACTWeight training makes the difference in fat loss. “Basically, the more muscle you build, the greater your resting metabolism; five pounds of muscle can burn an extra pound of fat each year,” notes certified personal trainer

    MYTH Muscle will convert to fat when you stop exercising.
    FACT It is physiologically impossible for muscle to turn into fat. “These are two separate tissues,” explains Jake Nelson, CPT. “Simply stated, muscle atrophies — so use it or lose it.”
    MYTH Bouncing improves a stretch and increases flexibility.
    FACT This actually counteracts the body’s ability to get the “stretch message” to the brain, allowing for the muscle to relax and lengthen. “Slow, controlled stretches held for at least thirty seconds and repeated two to three times are recommended,” says master trainer in integrated flexibility Kymberli Allen.
     MYTH Perform high repetitions to get toned.
     FACT Relatively heavy weights are most effective in changing the way you look. “Intensity is needed because light weights will not stress the muscles enough to adapt and change their current condition,” says Lue. What’s best? Eight to 12 repetitions with a weight heavy enough so that a 13th rep cannot be completed with proper form.
     MYTH Volumes of crunches will flatten the stomach. 
      The body doesn’t spot reduce with exercise. “You lose body fat evenly over your entire frame,” says Nelson. The solution: a balanced workout program that includes cardio and strength training as well as a smart eating strategy.