Muscle definition-what is it and how do you get it? Most people are a little unclear about the answer to this question. Yes, we all know what a well defined muscle looks like, but how do you achieve it?
Definition-sometimes referred to as ripped-is looking at someone’s arm and seeing their muscle laying against their skin. This goal is shared by bodybuilders and most fitness enthusiasts, alike. Definition is actually what makes muscles appear larger. Someone who works out and has a 12 inch bicep, that bicep will actually look larger than someone with an undefined 15 inch bicep.
So exactly what constitutes “being ripped”? Basically, definition depends on two things. One is muscle size and the other is body fat percentage. Basically, to become defined you need to build muscle while losing fat. This is of course what most people who work out are hoping to do.
“Hey, that Caleb sure knows all about fitness. Maybe he can tell me what exercise I can do to build muscle definition.” I can hear you thinking that, but I must say humbly, I can’t do that! Why you ask? Because there is no such an exercise.
To get definition, or ripped if you will, you have to lose excess fat while building muscle. A lot of people get discouraged after working out for awhile when they don’t see the definition they have been trying to achieve. Variety is the spice of life and a exercise program that ignores other aspects of fitness is not the best thing for overall general health.
Basically what I recommend is a low impact, low intensity, cardio exercise, like biking or hiking. Running is hard on the knees and not recommended for anyone, especially weight lifters.
As for building muscle mass, as always, I advise low numbers of reps with heavier weights to build muscle fast. You want to be using enough weight that you cannot do more than your planned number of reps per set. This combined with low impact cardio and a healthy diet will get you to that “ripped” look we’re all looking for.
See you later; I’ll be at the gym.