All-Over Muscle Toning

All-Over Muscle Toning

Nearly everyone knows that cardiovascular exercise burns calories and helps keep you fit and strong, but if you're seeking muscle definition you'll need to do more than just cardio. Many people, women especially, avoid weightlifting because they're afraid they could start looking brawny or bulky. But luckily, there are ways to attain a firm, all-over toned body without looking like you're preparing to enter a bodybuilding competition.

Cardio and Diet
Make sure you fit in regular exercise to keep excess fat away – otherwise you'll never be able to see those toned muscles you've worked so hard for! And eating a well-balanced diet will help you to get all the nutrients you need so your body has all the fuel it needs to power you through your workouts, keeping you energized and strong.

Low weight, High repetitions
When it comes to weightlifting, go for a lower weight and a higher number of repetitions. Four or five sets of 15-20 reps are ideal for all-over muscle toning. Use your own body as resistance. Exercises like yoga and pilates will strengthen and tone every muscle in your body, giving you the long, lean look that comes with an all-over toned body. Exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, pull-ups, and triceps all work your body using your body's own resistance, so you don't even need a gym!

Stretch
Stretching your body thoroughly before and after every workout will prevent injuries and lengthen your muscles, making it less likely your physique will develop into a group of knotty, bulky muscles.