1. False. Warm up first with at least five minutes of light exercise. Stretching while cold could result in a pulled muscle.

2. False. If you feel thirst, you’re already on your way to dehydration. Drink eight ounces of water (not soda) before starting, then again every 20 minutes during and then again after completing your workout.

3. True. Lifting weight builds muscle. And muscle burns more calories than fat during activity and at rest. Getting stronger will also make aerobic exercise easier and more fun, so you’re more likely to stick with it.

4. False. This is a common misconception. The only way to melt fat around your middle or anywhere else is by burning more calories than you take in. However, abdominal crunches strengthen your midsection, improve your posture and protect your lower back from injury, making ab crunches a beneficial exercise.

5. False. Experts do recommend getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day, but breaking your workout into three 10-minute segments will help get you in shape, too.

6. False. If you’ve got the flu you probably won’t be able to get out of bed. Exercise will further stress an immune system already under siege. Get more rest when you’re sick.

7. False. The biggest truth is that exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of heart disease, fend off depression, and boost your immune system.