Those sweaty sessions at the gym might be doing you more harm than good. Read on to find out how to get fit, look good and stay healthy...
Is your workout bad for you
A sagging face
Caused by: Running
Running is a great way to get fit, but if you're 35+, it can make your face look hollow and saggy. Skin loses elasticity as you get older and if you have low body fat you could start to look drawn and droopy.
Step and aerobic workouts are just as effective as running when it comes burning fat and toning legs and bottom. Or try running on a trampoline instead – it's a gentler option than pounding the pavements.
Brittle bones
Caused by: Cycling
New research from the University of Oklahoma shows that many cyclists have low bone density. If you train hard or often then you may be more susceptible to broken bones and, for women, osteoporosis in later life.
If cycling is your main form of exercise, or you like to race, then aim to mix up your training with some bone-strengthening resistance work or weights. You could also benefit from taking a calcium supplement or sipping a calcium-enriched sports drink during training.
Infertility
Caused by: Training too hard
If you have a low fat diet and a demanding exercise regime, then you will probably have very low body fat. Although this is good news when it comes to squeezing into skinny jeans, it's not so good if you're trying to get pregnant.
If you're trying to conceive, swap vigorous gym sessions for swimming, walking or Pilates. For optimum fertility, try to keep stress levels low and aim for a BMI between 19 and 25 – any lower and your fertility could be affected.
Headaches
Caused by: Yoga
Pushing yourself into complicated yoga positions can cause muscle tears and strains. You're at greater risk if you're following a yoga DVD, as there's no instructor on hand to check your posture. If popular positions like headstands aren't performed properly, you risk neck injuries and headaches.
Yoga is a great form of exercise, provided it taught properly and you work according to your body's limitations. It is important not to push yourself or approach it competitively, and look for an instructor who is qualified to a nationally accredited standard.
Back pain
Caused by: Core strength training
Most of us think that sit-ups and core strength exercises are the key to perfect abs – but if you overdo it, you could end up damaging your back. If they are not performed properly, they can aggravate an existing back or neck problem – or cause a new one.
If you suffer from a back pain, make an appointment with a physiotherapist who can teach you how to safely perform strengthening exercises. If you've recently joined a gym, ask a trainer to show you how to perform sit-ups and crunches correctly.