The Myth of the “Worst Exercise”: Debunked!

If you clicked on this post after seeing the subject line, “The worst exercise you can do…”, I’m thrilled to have caught your attention!

One of my patients recently asked me, “Is it bad for your knees to go over your toes?” These kinds of inquiries are my absolute favorite because they give us the opportunity to delve into the nuances of what makes an exercise “good” or “bad.”

Personally, I firmly believe that there’s no such thing as a bad exercise, and I’m not alone in this belief. Countless research studies have consistently shown that activities like running, jumping, or lifting heavy weights don’t cause negative changes in joint health.

You might be wondering, “But why have I been told that certain exercises are bad and should be avoided?” While I can’t offer a definitive answer, my suspicion is that your healthcare provider is erring on the side of caution in an effort to alleviate your pain quickly.

If you’ve ever dealt with an Achilles tendon issue, you know firsthand that recovery can be a lengthy process, often spanning six to twelve months. Understandably, most doctors simply don’t have the bandwidth to dedicate that much time to developing and refining a comprehensive rehab plan.

Furthermore, many healthcare professionals may not engage in activities like running or weightlifting themselves, leading to a lack of appreciation for the mental and physical benefits these pursuits offer.

It’s also possible that some providers are lagging behind on the latest research, which emphasizes the importance of continuing to engage in loading activities (such as lifting and running) even when experiencing discomfort.

For the record, squatting with your knees over your toes is not inherently bad.

So, what truly qualifies as the worst exercise?

The answer is simple: any movement performed excessively without proper preparation or training. However, this doesn’t mean you should avoid these movements altogether. Instead, it underscores the importance of seeking guidance and gradually progressing to ensure your body and tissues are adequately prepared to handle the load.

Here’s the good news: our team at The Resilient Athlete is passionate about running, lifting, and participating in sports. We prioritize these activities in our own lives and derive immense satisfaction from helping motivated individuals reclaim control over their health and fitness goals.

So, don’t hesitate to lace up your running shoes, grab those weights, or leap into action. The benefits of movement far outweigh the risks of remaining sedentary. Let’s embrace the joy of being active and strive to lead healthier, happier lives together!