Myth: Muscle Turns Into Fat When You Stop Exercising

It’s widely believed that muscle can transform into fat if someone stops exercising, causing many to worry about inactivity. This misconception stems from noticing physical changes in people who stop working out.

Muscle and fat are two distinct tissues and cannot convert into one another. When exercise stops, muscle mass may decrease due to reduced use, while fat may increase if calorie intake remains high. Changes in body composition are due to muscle atrophy and fat accumulation rather than transformation. Research in Sports Health supports that while a sedentary lifestyle affects muscle and fat balance, muscle itself does not turn into fat. Knowing the difference can motivate people to stay active and understand the role of exercise in maintaining muscle and managing fat.