Dr Mel Siff Blog

Someone wrote to me about the analysis of methods and techniques of training
something like this:

<<Why not just give the solution, rather than all the waffle! I don’t
disagree with whether the analysis is right or wrong, and would simply like
to know how one handles back problems. Surely the result will be the same,
whatever the theory? >>

***Some of my comments pointed out that a deeper theoretical understanding of
any process can improve one’s capabilities in using that process efficiently
and safely. I stressed that theory and research observations are not just
“waffle”, but essential steps in helping one understand human structure and
function more competently, so that practice can become more effective.

I added that the use of some very defective and bizarre theories have been
used throughout history to vindicate some outrageous therapies and training
which sometimes worked in a sufficient number of cases thanks to a strong
placebo effect to ensure that many people were satisfied much of the time -
until some new “waffling” scientists and thinkers came along to debunk the
myths! I also commented that all theories and models offer only a partial
representation of “reality” and that any deficiencies and errors in any model
can lead to problems somewhere down the line.

This reader’s views are by no means unique, because this desire for a
standardised training formula or scheme (preferably written on one little
training card!) is rife at many fitness, health and strength conferences.
Far too many instructors and clients seem to want a quick fix, a set approach
and minimal cerebration to solve any problem.

Would anyone else like to comment on this reader’s all too common remark?

Would anyone care to share with us some examples of deficient theories and
beliefs that are used to support training and therapeutic methods in the
world of sport and rehabilitation. Beliefs such as Time Under Tension (TUT),
HIT, Tempo Training, Strong Abs for Back Safety, Stretching to prevent
injury, core muscle strength improves posture and sporting performance are
but a few of the hundreds that we all come across daily.

Dr Mel C Siff

For more information on Facts and Fallacies of Fitness by Dr Mel Siff please click here

Tags: Conferences, Deficiencies, Dr Mel Siff, Fitness Health, Health And Strength, Mel Siff, Myths, Placebo Effect, Research Observations, Scientists, Structure And Function, Supertraining, Tempo Training, Therapeutic Methods, Waffling