Toning exercises

Toning exercises are physical exercises that aim to develop musculature that is hard, as opposed to flaccid. Performing such exercises can be referred to as toning. In this respect, the term toned implies leanness in the body, low levels of body fat, and noticeable muscle definition and shape. The concept of "muscle building" may refer to the expected effects of such exercises.

Toning can contrast with bodybuilding, which generally aims to maximize muscle hypertrophy. In many physical fitness programs, trainers recommend performing a high number of reps at a low weight, whereas in bodybuilding, low reps and high weight are recommended.

Criticism

Many bodybuilders [Goulet, Chris. [http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/goulet5.htm The Myth Of "Toning"] ] and experts argue that there is no such thing as a toning exercise. What is referred to as toning actually consists of two effects: increased muscle size through hypertrophy and lower bodyfat percent [Waehner, Paige. [http://exercise.about.com/cs/weightloss/a/toning.htm Can You Really 'Tone' Your Body?] ] . Combined, these create the effect mistakenly called toning.

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