Tip: Be well-rounded to look well-defined

If losing weight and looking great is your goal, some form of exercise is a MUST in your plan.

You don't want to lose the weight only to appear 'skinny-fat' do you? [Tweet this]

You want to be 'lean and toned' right? I thought so. That look is only achieved through diet AND exercise.

But that's not all...

The type (or types) of exercise you do will also have a part to play in what look you end up achieving.

Doing only cardio (like jogging/running/cycling) may leave you looking too thin - like a marathon runner - whereas doing only heavy weight lifting may leave you looking too bulky - unlikely without drugs, but still possible.

This is why I recommend VARIETY in your exercise routine.

It doesn't help to be able to run 100km if you're not strong enough to get up after falling down.

Not only does this take care of achieving a balanced looking physique, but it helps you to be fit for all sorts of scenarios - the primary reason we exercise in the first place. It doesn't help to be able to run 100km if you're not strong enough to get up after falling down, or lift your child.

My recommendation is that you do resistance training (weights) two or three times per week, and some cardio two or three times per week. They can be done on the same day or alternating.

Each session should ideally last 45 to 60 minutes and be of sufficient intensity to push you but not injure you. If you focus on doing a tiny bit more/better every time, you'll progress at a very healthy pace.

1. Prev:Burn calories with a friend
2. Next:The perfect weight-loss pantry: Quickest, healthiest snack meals