Toning Tips For Different Body Types by Happenings

 

 

Do you know what exercises actually work for YOU? With time to exercise being so short, we want to ensure we make the most of our moves in the gym or fitness studio.

Described below are toning tips for different body shapes. It’s time to enhance your best bits and say farewell to the problem areas.

'The Apple' shape

Define your curves by teaming low-impact cardio with tummy and waist toning exercises. Jéan LK of Timed Fitness says: “For your cardio fix go for hill walks at a medium speed or try a reclining gym bike. Tummy toning doesn't mean hundreds of crunches, try some yoga-inspired moves with planks and oblique curls for an effective way to tone your mid-section".

'The Boyish' shape

Want to make that enviably lean physique a bit shapelier? “Try weight bearing exercises, such as squats with dumbbells and leg presses to create lean muscle mass in the bum area" says Jéan. "Stick to 10-12 reps and medium weights - you don't want to become 'overdefined'." Laying out a small cardio circuit involving the above might help break up the repetition.

'The Busty' shape

The curse of the big breasted among us is back pain - the remedy? "You'll need to work all the muscles in your upper back abs and bum as they support the spine. Try rowing to engage all the relevant muscle groups and keep you chest toned with chest presses and pectoral flys. Lastly, try oblique curls and the ‘bridge’ yoga pose to tone and strengthen your sides and define your waist."

‘The Pear’ shape

For a toned, round booty and strong thighs that will make Beyoncé jealous, try walking lunges and single-leg squats. Go for light hand weights and lots of reps - 15-20. To keep your lean upper body toned, try indoor rowing. It tackles the whole body, is great cardio and resistance training is great for toning without building bulky muscle.

'The Hourglass' shape

It's all about keeping that shapely body of yours firm. Focus on high-intensity interval training - it has lots of health as well as body-shaping benefits. Try an indoor cycling class - intensive 25-30 minute cardio sessions should do the trick. The group atmosphere will keep you going and the competition might even be fun.