Toning exercises


Toning exercises are physical exercises that are used with the aim of developing a physique with a large emphasis on musculature. In this context, the term toned implies leanness in the body, noticeable muscle definition and shape, but not significant muscle size.
Research and basic anatomical knowledge imply that the notion of specific exercises to improve tone is unfounded. Exercises can aid fat loss or stimulate muscle hypertrophy, but cannot otherwise improve tone. The size of the muscle can change, as can the amount of fat covering the muscle, but the 'shape' cannot.
The word tone or toning can be misleading as it suggests that spot reduction is possible where localized fat can be reduced, which it cannot. It is suggested to use the words muscle building or fat loss instead.

Exercises

Exercises popularly believed to improve tone are primarily weight lifting exercises performed with high repetitions and low resistance, with short rest periods.
This conventional wisdom is however criticized as poor-quality and inefficient. What is advocated is an exercise routine involving;