Body fat and ideal weight

Is it possible to reach the ideal weight and still look out of shape?

How much harder does one need to push in exercise to get a toned body?

Thu. Sep 8, 6:44pm

Yes it is possible to be unhealthy at your ideal weight. Many slim people are unhealthy, some unhealthier than an overweight person, because they do not eat well or exercise. An ideal weight should be where you feel comfortable with yourself. The body mass index is a better way of knowing if you are healthy or not.

Remember, that if you only diet, you burn muscle as well as fat. This does 2 things, 1) increases your chances of gaining your weight back 2) if you do gain back, then you have more fat and less muscle.

Plus, once you start seeing your body toning up you'll feel better about yourself. If you don't like hitting the weights or the machines, try an aqua class (water aerobics). Its easier on the joints and you don't work up a sweat :)

Thursday, September 08, 2005, 7:40 PM

I actually think that the BMI scale isn't that useful since it only takes into account height and weight. There isn't anything in the calculation to account for muscle mass and percentage of body fat.

I definately agree tho, that how good you feel is a great indicator of how healthy you are.

For women to tone, we don't have to lift a lot of weight, many reps at a lower weight actually work better.

Friday, September 09, 2005, 9:38 AM

The BMI calculations that are available on the internet are crude estimations based on height and weight, but the tests available at gyms and by personal trainers are much more accurate and literally measure the amount of fat on your body. Those are the kinds of tests that are valid and helpful.

Friday, September 09, 2005, 10:06 AM

I think your genetic body type certainly plays a role in how "toned" you look -- some people are just naturally lean and muscular.

But for the rest of us, I think weight training (or some other strenous, muscle-building exercise, like ballet) is essential if you want to look toned.

Friday, September 09, 2005, 11:47 AM

Where to test body fat %

How do you get your body fat measured if you don't belong to a gym?

Monday, October 10, 2005, 11:38 PM

Good question

Maybe by your doctor?

Monday, October 10, 2005, 11:54 PM

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