Equally important as a positive attitude is the need to clear up the many misconceptions and myths that surround the exercise and training process. We're bombarded by advertisements that guarantee “amazing” results from gadgets in only minutes a day or pills that “melt” fat off our bodies. If it were truly that simple, wouldn't everyone be fit? Clearly, quick fixes are not the answer.

This misinformation does a serious disservice to people. Achieving health, fitness, and wellness is not complex, but it isn't something that is acquired instantly. It requires a lifestyle of healthy living that includes sensible amounts of activity, eating healthy foods in moderate portions, getting enough sleep to feel rested and restored, spending time with family and friends, and relaxing and enjoying pursuits that are meaningful and fulfilling.

The following are common misconceptions about exercise:

• No pain, no gain: Moderate exercise prevents injury and produces results.

• Exercise is only for athletes: The human body is designed to move. Modern living requires us to exercise because most natural activity is no longer necessary. Every person benefits from exercise and moderate levels of daily activity.

• Weight training makes you big: Very few people have the genetics necessary to build large muscles naturally and certain styles of training build more muscle size than others. Moderate levels of weight training improve your muscle conditioning and are good for your bones and joints.

• Weight training doesn't help you lose weight: The most successful programs for weight loss and maintenance include a combination of weight training, aerobic exercise, and good nutrition.

• One type of exercise is better than others: Exercise enthusiasts swear by yoga or weight training, or whatever it is that they love to do. The best training program includes a combination of activities.

• If you exercise a lot, it doesn't matter what you eat: While it's true that if you're very active you can eat more food without gaining weight because you're using lots of energy, the best diet still consists primarily of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other fresh and minimally processed foods.

• You shouldn't exercise when you have your period: Female Olympians have won gold medals when they have their periods. How you feel is your best judge. You should avoid anything inverted, such as a headstand. Light exercise helps many women to feel better.

• Taking a supplement can make you slim and fit: No supplement exists that can replace the benefits of a balanced exercise program and good nutrition. The bottom line: save your money.

Getting to the bottom of these false notions can help you to realize your true dreams. Once you clear up these false beliefs, you can take solid steps toward real solutions to achieving what you want to create in your life.