How to Get a Leaner, Slimmer Body

There's no secret formula for toning your body and achieving a slimmer physique. While there are hundreds of trendy diet plans and weight-loss pills on the market, the most effective way to slim down and tone your body is to engage in regular physical activity and maintain a balanced diet. Keep in mind that the more you exercise, the more results you can expect to see over time.

Instructions

    • 1

      Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables and drink more water. Natural foods are low in calories and high in fiber, which fills you up and reduces food cravings. Avoid processed foods, refined sugar and sweetened drinks. These are high in fat and sugar with little nutritional value.

    • 2

      Determine your basal metabolic rate (BMR) -- the number of calories your body needs each day to perform normal functions -- and the number of calories you burn daily through activity. Add your BMR and activity level, then subtract the number of calories you eat. For example, if your BMR and activity level total 2,400 calories, and you're eating 2,800 calories per day, then you'll gain weight. If you consume less than 2,400 calories, you'll lose weight.

    • 3

      Engage in regular cardiovascular exercise to burn fat. Any activity that raises your heart rate, such as biking, running, brisk walking, dancing or even gardening, counts as cardiovascular exercise. If you choose an activity that you enjoy, you will be more likely to stick with it. Likewise, higher-intensity exercise burns more calories and keeps your metabolism elevated after a workout. The amount of exercise you need depends on your goals.

    • 4

      Lift weights. The more muscle mass your body has, the higher your resting metabolic rate will be. Start with one or two sets of 12 to 15 repetitions, and choose eight to 10 exercises that involve all the major muscle groups. After three or four weeks, add another set, and vary your exercises. Weight train at least twice a week on non-consecutive days for best results.

    • 5

      Set goals for yourself. Even small changes in your diet and exercise routine can vastly improve your overall health and help you keep the weight off. Rewarding yourself every once in a while will help you stay motivated and boost your confidence.