Consistently working out is a huge commitment, as are frequent visits to a gym, so knowing how to get a lean body at home is something many people wish they knew how to do. The truth is everyone’s body sculpts differently, and metabolism and muscle-building differ from person to person; still, there are plenty of ways everyone can learn how to get a lean body at home.  A lean physique is not just “cosmetically attractive” but it is a sign of health.

Crafting a lean physique using healthy at-home practices really comes down to setting a regimen, understanding your body type, and keeping some additional key factors in mind. Let’s take a closer look at some of these tips. 

How to Build Lean Muscle

When people wonder how to build lean muscle, many will think of constant gym visits and obscene weightlifting practices. However, the process of learning how to get toned muscles or commonly also called “shredding” in a healthy way comes down to a lot more. Losing weight while gaining muscle mass or getting shredded, as is commonly said, needs to be done simultaneously. And that requires both ways of actively losing unnecessary fat and building the lean muscle with a combination of techniques.

From setting realistic goals about workouts to proper exercise technique and strategy, there’s a lot to consider and weigh against your current beliefs. 

From setting realistic goals about workouts to proper exercise technique and strategy, there’s a lot to consider and weigh against your current beliefs. 

1. Set Realistic Goals - Setting unrealistic goals means assuming oneself can meet almost impossible deadlines and getting upset when they are not, which can be neither mentally or physically healthy. For example, it’s unrealistic to go from limited physical exercise to workouts 5 or 6 days a week, as it's unrealistic to assume your goals will be met almost immediately following these strict routines. 

A great way to build your ideal lean physique is to steady yourself accordingly. Start with less frequent workouts and build up from there, or workout for 30 minutes daily and extend that time as the days and weeks go by. 

2. Do Exercises Correctly and Completely - Once your realistic at home regimen is set, it’s important to remain consistent and correct. If you’re lifting weights, make sure you’re doing reps correctly, and remember to finish them the same way each time. 

Working out at home, whether it’s weight lifting or a lower abs workout, often follows three phases: lengthening the muscle, letting the muscle relax, and then shortening the muscle. Rushing or by-passing any phase could mean more time to see results. As an added measure, make sure to read up on full exercise instructions to make sure you’re getting the most out of them.

3. Mix Cardio With Strength Training - For those who are unsure about how to get fit at home without equipment, one key notion to remember is how a balance of cardio and strength leads to better results. Cardiovascular exercises work to burn calories stored in the fat, which is ultimately what you’re trying to make lean. 

As the heart pumps, vascular relaxation and compliance follows shortly- which essentially conditions you to deal with stress in the future. Following strength training using powerlifting for example, increases muscle gains. 

So, to gain a lean body with a higher muscle mass, cardio training is required to shred the extra pounds, but muscle gains only happen with toning exercises. Always follow cardio exercises with bicep curls, power lifts, bench-press,etc. While the right mix and balance of cardio and strength also depends on body type, it’s never a bad idea to toss in a run, jumping jacks, or even a brisk walk to increase your endurance.

4. Pay attention to nutrition (and hydration)- We cannot stress the importance of proper nutrition and electrolyte/mineral intake in developing a lean body. Exercise is a big part of getting lean and it must be supplemented with appropriate nutrition to account for the wear and tear. Similarly, hydration, particularly with the right electrolyte solutions is vital to prevent muscle soreness, cramping and premature fatigue, all of which are barriers in getting you a lean body.

Muscles are in the limelight during exercise and constant workout. Small amounts of muscle injuries (micro-injuries) are common after a heavy workout. These cause soreness which can prevent you from getting back to the gym. An electrolyte formula like MAGNAK® is rich in magnesium and prevents soreness, inflammation and cramps, so you can work on getting shredded without a hindrance. Magnesium also helps you gain muscle strength and size by participating in protein synthesis, all equally visible aspects of getting you closer to your desired lean physique.

Mental Tips to Remember When Learning How to Get a Lean Body

• Feel Challenged By Your Workouts - While you don’t want to overdo any of your workouts, nor do you want to wake up more sore than you’ve ever felt before, you should still feel challenged by your exercise. Developing a regimen but failing to reach the same goals every day isn’t going to hurt you, but you may not see the results you’re after.
• Be Patient - You’re not going to develop a six-pack or huge arms overnight. Working out takes a while to get results, and that’s totally okay. Don’t feel discouraged if you haven’t noticed changes within the first two weeks. Stay consistent and eager and you will see them in due time. Remember, even if the lean body is not there yet, health benefits of exercise are appreciated quite early.

Our primary mission at MAGNAK® is to help individuals achieve their best. Supplying athletes with an exclusive electrolyte formula, we assist in the prevention of dehydration and muscle cramps that are common during routine exercise. Learn more about the science that makes us an industry-leading choice, or contact us today for questions regarding our products.