It all depends on what type of guitar you have. If you have a cheep guitar, and ride your whammy bar like your girlfriend, I'm pretty sure the springs might wear out. But if you have a nice one with a god tremolo, then I'm sure you wont be having any problems,

Your friends are just talking to look smart... would the whammy bar be invented if it ruins the strings... no


I dont think you have to worry about it!!!

Good playing!!! :)