Group: Beginners to Exercise

Created: 2012/01/01, Members: 970, Messages: 18927

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Toning vs. Strengthening - myth buster

asimmer
asimmer
Posts: 8,201
Joined: 2003/01/07
United States
2003/04/18, 12:55 PM
In response to all of the people who worry about bulking up and think that there is any diferrence betwen toning and strenghtening...Quoting from the may/june 2002 issue of acefitnessmatters
"Physiologically, there is no difference between toning and strengthening a muscle. Many individuals are confused regarding the relationship between muscle strength, muscle tone or definition, and muscle size. As muscle strength improves, muscle tone improves due to a greater density of the muscle fibers.
Everyone has the ability to increase muscle strength and muscle tone to some degre. Relatively few adults (female or male), however, possess the genetic capability to develop large muscles or the "cut" physique of the models seen in many of the popular fitness magazines. To achieve the 'buffed' look, you must develop reasonably significant levels of muscle mass while simultaneously reducing the amount of fat under the skin. When this effect is achieved, the well-developed muscles can be seen under the skin. In fact, the majority of individuals have 'washboard' abdominal regions. Unfortunately for most of us, a layer of bodyfat covers our 'six packs' Participating in a balanced exercise program (aerobic conditioning and strength training) and eating sensibly is the best approach to achieving a well-toned, firm body."

So, Ladies especially!!!! It takes a lot of time and really hard work to bulk up! Bulking up is something that happens to those either genetically blessed or those who are trying to do it, and it takes time and effort both in the gym and in the area of eating and lifestyle.
When you think you are bulking up it is usually because you are firming up under your fat, clean up your diet, stick with your program and lose the bodyfat.
If bulking up was as easy as some people fear there would be a lot more buff people walking around, and a lot more really big, natural bodybuilders. So relax!
Lift heavy in good form, do your cardio, eat clean and reap the rewards of a nice, shapely, defined body!

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Challenge + Consistency = Results
bb1fit
bb1fit
Posts: 11,105
Joined: 2001/06/30
United States
2003/04/18, 01:49 PM
that was a good post...I see so many posts asking this question, or simply stating, both male and female, "I don't want to ge big or bulky". It is hard to tell them they won't, in most cases even trying to!! Great article, hope lots of people read it, especially the women.

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The one goal you will NEVER achieve is the one you never attempt.
jefado
jefado
Posts: 443
Joined: 2003/04/03
United States
2003/04/18, 02:06 PM
Seems like a great article...acefitnessmatters sounds like a pretty decent read...Are most of the articles so informative?
dahayz
dahayz
Posts: 794
Joined: 2002/05/08
United States
2003/04/18, 05:50 PM
Awesome post asimmer. Let the truth be told.
Carivan
Carivan
Posts: 8,542
Joined: 2002/01/20
Canada
2003/04/18, 10:32 PM
Keep them coming! Another good post.

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We must become the change we want to see.


Ivan Montreal Canada
jxlynxli
jxlynxli
Posts: 250
Joined: 2003/01/29
United States
2003/04/20, 01:58 PM
great post! really helps a lot!