{"id":798834,"date":"2024-02-02T19:02:06","date_gmt":"2024-02-02T19:02:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-are-your-dexa-body-fat-results-right-copy\/"},"modified":"2024-02-03T12:59:38","modified_gmt":"2024-02-03T12:59:38","slug":"blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Build Lean Muscle Mass"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"bsf_rt_marker\"><\/div><p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; admin_label=&#8221;Section&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.19.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; da_disable_devices=&#8221;off|off|off&#8221; collapsed=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; da_is_popup=&#8221;off&#8221; da_exit_intent=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_close=&#8221;on&#8221; da_alt_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_dark_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_not_modal=&#8221;on&#8221; da_is_singular=&#8221;off&#8221; da_with_loader=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_shadow=&#8221;on&#8221;][et_pb_row admin_label=&#8221;Row&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.22.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.19.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text ul_item_indent=&#8221;50px&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;Text&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.24.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Open Sans||||||||&#8221; link_font=&#8221;|600|||||||&#8221; ul_text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Whether you\u2019re looking to build strength, bulk, gain muscle, increase your size, or gain weight, you\u2019ve probably heard an emphasis on building lean muscle mass.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Technically, lean muscle is just\u2026 muscle. But when we talk about building lean muscle mass, we\u2019re <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">really<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> talking about building muscle while also gaining minimal fat.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">There\u2019s a lot of conflicting information out there on the best way to build muscle, so in this article, we\u2019ll break it down into two main categories: how to exercise to gain muscle, and how to eat to gain muscle.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_lean_muscle_mass\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">What is lean muscle mass?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#What_is_lean_muscle_mass\" >What is lean muscle mass?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#How_do_I_know_my_lean_mass\" >How do I know my lean mass?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Can_I_build_lean_muscle_mass_and_lose_fat_at_the_same_time\" >Can I build lean muscle mass and lose fat at the same time?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#What_are_the_benefits_of_building_lean_muscle_mass\" >What are the benefits of building lean muscle mass?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Build_strength\" >Build strength<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Increase_metabolic_rate\" >Increase metabolic rate<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Improve_functional_movement_and_posture\" >Improve functional movement and posture\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Decrease_risk_of_injury_or_falls\" >Decrease risk of injury or falls\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Part_1_How_to_build_lean_muscle_mass_with_exercise\" >Part 1: How to build lean muscle mass with exercise<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Hit_multiple_sets_at_a_medium_load\" >Hit multiple sets at a medium load<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Prioritise_compound_movements\" >Prioritise compound movements\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Increase_your_training_intensity_frequency_or_volume\" >Increase your training intensity, frequency, or volume\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Modify_movements_as_needed\" >Modify movements as needed<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Dont_skip_the_rest_days\" >Don\u2019t skip the rest days!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Part_2_How_to_build_lean_muscle_mass_with_nutrition\" >Part 2: How to build lean muscle mass with nutrition<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Calculate_your_RMR_and_TDEE\" >Calculate your RMR and TDEE<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Track_your_macros\" >Track your macros\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Increase_your_protein_intake\" >Increase your protein intake<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Dont_drastically_cut_calories\" >Don\u2019t drastically cut calories\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-build-lean-muscle-mass\/#Hit_your_lean_muscle_mass_goals_with_specialist_fitness_testing_at_My_Vital_Metrics\" >Hit your lean muscle mass goals with specialist fitness testing at My Vital Metrics\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">As we mentioned in the introduction, the term \u201clean muscle mass\u201d is a bit of a misnomer, as all muscle is lean!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Building lean muscle mass is the process of building muscle while adding minimal body fat \u2013 you might hear this referred to as a \u201clean\u201d or \u201cclean\u201d bulk.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Why is this type of muscle gain lean?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Well, gaining muscle while gaining very little additional body fat results in a higher total lean body mass. Lean mass is all the non-fat parts of your body composition: your muscle, bone, body water, internal organs, and skin. Lean mass isn\u2019t something you can typically measure at home, but a professional DEXA scan can unlock <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-what-does-a-body-composition-scan-show\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">in-depth body composition metrics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_I_know_my_lean_mass\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">How do I know my lean mass?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">While there are a few ways to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-the-importance-of-body-composition-testing\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">measure or estimate your body fat percentage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">, getting an accurate measurement of your lean mass is a little trickier.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/services\/dexa\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">DEXA scan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> is a highly accurate method of gaining insight into your overall body composition, including your muscle mass and overall lean mass. A DEXA scan can measure:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Body fat mass<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Body fat percentage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Muscle mass<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Muscle percentage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Lean mass<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Fat-free mass<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Visceral fat (VAT)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Bone mineral content (BMC)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Bone mineral density (BMD)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Android: gynoid ratio (a measure of fat distribution)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Other measures of lean mass \u2013 such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-accurate-are-body-fat-scales\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">body fat scales<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> \u2013 tend to have lower levels of accuracy, but can be used to track trends in your body composition over time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_build_lean_muscle_mass_and_lose_fat_at_the_same_time\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Can I build lean muscle mass and lose fat at the same time?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">It\u2019s the age-old fitness question: can you <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/build-muscle-lose-fat-same-time\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">build muscle and lose fat at the same time<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">To cut to the chase, the answer is yes &#8212; and no.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">If you&#8217;re just starting out with strength training, research shows that you may well be able to lose fat and build muscle simultaneously. Those sought-after &#8220;newbie gains&#8221; aren&#8217;t a myth &#8212; and many new gym-goers are encouraged by noticeable progress when they start working out.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">However, body recomposition is a complicated science, and every body is different.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Once you&#8217;re regularly training (or if you&#8217;re starting from a place of higher muscle mass), then losing fat and building muscle at the same time becomes substantially more difficult.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">The reason for this difficulty is closely linked to another question: can you build muscle in a calorie deficit?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Building muscle requires a caloric surplus while losing fat requires a caloric deficit &#8212; you can see where this is going! Using a cycle of cutting (to decrease body fat) and bulking (to build mass) is a common method of hitting both goals &#8212; even if not exactly simultaneously. We\u2019ll talk more about nutrition for bulking later in this article.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Even if your main goal is to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-lose-fat-with-a-dexa-scan-for-body-fat\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">reduce body fat<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">, aiming to maintain your muscle mass is a great way to limit the natural decrease in metabolism that occurs when we lose weight.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_benefits_of_building_lean_muscle_mass\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\"><br \/>What are the benefits of building lean muscle mass?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/shutterstock_238278505.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;A strong, muscular, white woman stands facing away from the camera, posed with both biceps flexed. She is wearing a red sports bra that accentuates her back and shoulder muscles.  &#8221; title_text=&#8221;shutterstock_238278505&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.24.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.24.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">\u00a0Before we dive into how to build muscle, let\u2019s review the top benefits of building lean muscle mass.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Build_strength\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Build strength<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">The first and most obvious benefit of building muscle is increased strength.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">As you gain muscle, you\u2019ll start to notice you\u2019re able to complete your workouts easier, lift heavier, and see your form improve. Strength can pay off both inside and outside the gym, improving sports performance, making everyday tasks easier, boosting self-esteem, and creating a leaner look.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Increase_metabolic_rate\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Increase metabolic rate<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">When it comes to body recomposition, this next benefit can be hugely beneficial.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Higher lean body mass is positively associated with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3661116\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">reduced rates of insulin resistance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> and metabolic syndrome and a higher resting metabolic rate. This is largely because lean muscle requires more energy to maintain than fat \u2013 as a general rule, the more muscle you have, the more energy you\u2019ll need.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">As you gain muscle, this can have a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/foundryfit.com\/15-ways-increased-muscle-mass-improves-metabolism\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">positive effect on your calorie expenditure<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> and caloric needs, making it easier to meet your body recomp goals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Improve_functional_movement_and_posture\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Improve functional movement and posture\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">While it&#8217;s a common narrative that strength training can make you <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">less<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> flexible, the opposite is actually true.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">A 2011 study found that full range of motion strength training was <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/21969080\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">equally as effective as static stretching<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> at improving flexibility in the participants, and other studies have found that <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5609666\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">resistance training is also linked to improved flexibility<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Overall, strength training is a great way to increase mobility and flexibility, and even improve your posture, all while working on those muscle gains.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">To maximise flexibility as you build muscle, focus on utilising your full range of motion for each exercise. Don\u2019t rush, maintain a neutral spine, and stay steady throughout the entire rep \u2013 including lowering the weight \u2013\u00a0 don\u2019t let gravity do your work for you!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Decrease_risk_of_injury_or_falls\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Decrease risk of injury or falls\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Strength training helps to reduce injury risk by increasing strength, improving balance, and increasing range of motion. Muscle also <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3900422\/#:~:text=Upon%20stretch%20they%20absorb%20body,yet%20consumes%20very%20little%20ATP.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">functions as a \u201cshock absorber\u201d<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">, helping protect our joints during high-impact exercises such as running, jumping, and plyometrics.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">One review of 7738 athletes found that strength training <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/30131332\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">decreased the risk of injury by up to 33%<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> \u2013 with each 10% increase in training correlating to a 4% decrease in risk.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Similarly, strength training can help <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/30703272\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">reduce the risk of falls<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">. This is particularly relevant for older adults or those living with osteoporosis, who can face both a higher risk of falling and worse outcomes from falls. Multicomponent exercise \u2013 particularly that incorporates weight-bearing aerobic exercise and strength and resistance exercises \u2013 has been shown to have a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6323511\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">positive effect on bone density<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> in patients with osteoporosis.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Part_1_How_to_build_lean_muscle_mass_with_exercise\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\"><br \/>Part 1: How to build lean muscle mass with exercise<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/shutterstock_2248658691.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;A muscular black man with a cropped haircut and wearing a grey tank top is visible from the waist up in an indoor setting. He has one arm stretched across his body and is using the other arm to stretch his upper body. &#8221; title_text=&#8221;shutterstock_2248658691&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.24.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.24.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">\u00a0Exercise is a crucial component of building muscle mass. Here are some top tips for building lean muscle:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hit_multiple_sets_at_a_medium_load\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Hit multiple sets at a medium load<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">If you\u2019re new to building muscle, any weight-bearing exercise you do will likely kickstart the process of muscle gain. At this point, getting started is a great goal.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">However, for more experienced gym-goers, professional athletes, or those with a higher starting muscle mass, it can pay off to be a bit more specific about what and how you lift.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">One highly-researched <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/20847704\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">method of building muscle mass<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> is repeated sets at a medium weight \u2013 approximately 65-85% of your 1 rep maximum for a given exercise. Evidence suggests that incorporating multiple medium-weight sets encourages muscle hypertrophy (muscle growth) by increasing testosterone and HGF (human growth factor) \u2013 two hormones that impact muscle gain.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">To put this tip into action, you want to first assess your max weight for the strength exercises you\u2019re currently training (or want to start training).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">If you\u2019re new to strength training, ask a trainer at your gym for advice on how to assess your max weight \u2013 or ask them to supervise. Even if you feel confident, don\u2019t jump right in and reach for the heaviest weight you can carry off the rack \u2013 assessing max strength can potentially be dangerous if not done carefully. If you\u2019re in doubt, go lighter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Once you know your max weight, train multiple sets of 6-12 reps at a 65-85% capacity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">For example, if your starting max squat weight was 100lb, you\u2019d want to train multiple sets of 6-12 reps at a 65-85lb weight, breaking for 1-3 mins in between each set.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">As you gain strength, adapt to match your gains.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prioritise_compound_movements\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Prioritise compound movements\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/fitness-exercise\/compound-exercises\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Compound movements<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> recruit multiple muscle groups simultaneously, making them an efficient use of your training time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Aim to incorporate some of the following compound movements in your workouts:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Deadlifts (use your hamstrings, glutes, quads, lats, traps, and core muscles)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Pull-ups (lats, triceps, biceps, traps, rear delts, and core muscles)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Shoulder presses (shoulders, pecs, traps, and triceps)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Push-ups (shoulders, triceps, pecs, deltoids, and core muscles)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Squats (quads, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and core muscles)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Bench presses (pecs, shoulders and triceps)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Rows (lats, rhomboids, biceps, traps)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">As well as saving you time in the gym, compound movements can get your heart rate going, elevate your calorie burn, and boost muscle hypertrophy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Don\u2019t be afraid to incorporate some isolation movements on top of your compound moves and lifts. These can be a great option for increasing your training volume and targeting smaller muscle groups.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Increase_your_training_intensity_frequency_or_volume\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Increase your training intensity, frequency, or volume\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">The \u201cbest\u201d training frequency is going to vary depending on your goals, fitness level, the equipment you have access to, the time you can dedicate to training, and whether you need to build muscle mass on a schedule or before a specific date.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">However, one factor remains consistent: if you\u2019re working out consistently and not seeing the results you\u2019re looking for, you have three main options:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Increase training intensity\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Increase training frequency<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Increase training volume\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Training intensity is how <\/span><b>hard <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">you train \u2013 for strength training, this is often reflected in the weight you lift.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Training frequency is how <\/span><b>often <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">you train \u2013 whether that\u2019s 2, 3, 4, or 5+ days a week.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Training volume is how <\/span><b>long <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">you train for \u2013 whether that\u2019s 30, 45, or 60+ mins per workout.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Switch up one of these factors at a time, and train consistently for at least 2 weeks before considering switching things up again. Remember: when it comes to building muscle, consistency is key.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Modify_movements_as_needed\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Modify movements as needed<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Can\u2019t complete an exercise? Rather than skipping tougher exercises in favour of those you can already do well, aim to incorporate lower intensity or modified versions of harder exercises to build up your strength.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">This is particularly relevant if you\u2019re incorporating bodyweight or calisthenic exercises as a part of your strength workouts. There are endless variations and drills you can utilise to work towards doing pull-ups, chin-ups, press-ups, squats (or even handstands!) with perfect form. Practice makes perfect, and there\u2019s no shame in not being able to complete a full movement yet.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_skip_the_rest_days\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Don\u2019t skip the rest days!<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">As you work out and build muscle, your body needs time to rest and recover. Rest days are a crucial part of any exercise regime, and over-training can sabotage your hard work, affect your form, and diminish your performance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">To <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/muscle-recovery\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">maximise muscle recovery<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">, make sure to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Get consistent, good-quality sleep<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Have adequate protein pre and post-workout<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Eat a well-balanced diet<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Stay hydrated<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Avoid alcohol and tobacco\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Aim to take at least 2 rest days per week, and where you have back-to-back workout days, alternate muscle groups to encourage muscle recovery.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Part_2_How_to_build_lean_muscle_mass_with_nutrition\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\"><br \/>Part 2: How to build lean muscle mass with nutrition<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/shutterstock_554489575.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;An array of raw healthy food items are displayed on a wooden platter atop grey wooden floorboards.  A salmon filet, an avocado, basil leaves, and various nuts and berries are visible. &#8221; title_text=&#8221;shutterstock_554489575&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.24.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.24.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Nutrition is an essential component of any fitness goal. Let\u2019s take a look at how to use your nutrition to maximise your muscle gain.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Calculate_your_RMR_and_TDEE\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Calculate your RMR and TDEE<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">The first step in optimising your nutrition for building lean muscle is to understand the number of calories you\u2019re expending and consuming each day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">You can use the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/calculators\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">My Vital Metrics BMR and TDEE calculator<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> to estimate your basal metabolic rate and total daily energy expenditure. Plus, if you have the results of a recent DEXA scan or RMR test, adding these to the calculator will give more accurate results.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">If you don\u2019t have results from a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/services\/dexa\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">DEXA scan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/services\/resting-metabolic-rate\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">RMR test<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">, don\u2019t worry: you can still use the calculator. Simply add your age, height, weight, and sex to get started. Then, the calculator will ask you the type of work you do (sedentary, active, etc), the number, length, and intensity of your workouts per week, your daily step count, and the hours of sleep you get per night.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">This will give you an estimate of your TDEE \u2013 the total number of calories you would need to consume daily to maintain your current weight.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">If you\u2019re aiming to bulk to build lean muscle mass, you can use your TDEE +10% for a conservative bulk, or your TDEE +20% for a maximal bulk.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Track_your_macros\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Track your macros\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Once you have your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/calculators\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">TDEE<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">, tracking your food consumption is a great way to stay on track with your goal to add lean muscle mass. While overall caloric intake is important, tracking your macros for muscle gain can help fuel your workouts and encourage your body to prioritise muscle repair and growth.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Not sure where to start? Consider tracking your macros for a week to get a baseline measurement of what you\u2019re currently eating, and adjust from there.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">You can use this <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/15107010\/#:~:text=In%20summary%2C%20the%20composition%20of,season%20and%20pre%2Dcontest%20phases.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">macro guide for building muscle mass<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> as a rough guide, and adapt as needed to suit your diet and goals:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">40-60% carbohydrates<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">25-35% protein<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">15-25% fat\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">While it may be tempting to cut carbs lower, adequate carbohydrate intake is essential for proper fuel for high-intensity training. Similarly, make sure to include enough healthy, unsaturated fats such as omega-3s. Fats are essential for the digestion of fat-soluble vitamins and are used by your body as fuel during higher-intensity workouts. You can get healthy fats from foods such as salmon and other fatty fish, avocado, nuts, chia seeds, and olive oil.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Increase_your_protein_intake\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Increase your protein intake<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">It\u2019s an obvious tip, but an important one. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance, growth, and repair \u2013 you simply aren\u2019t building muscle without adequate protein.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Aim to incorporate <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nutrition.org.uk\/healthy-sustainable-diets\/protein\/?level=Consumer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">high protein foods for muscle building<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">, such as:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Salmon (24.6g per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Chicken breast (32g per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Tinned tuna (24.9g per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Greek yoghurt (5.7g per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Eggs (6g per large whole egg)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Beef steak (31g per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Red lentils (7.6g per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Chickpeas (7.2g\u00a0 per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Tofu (8g per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Quinoa (12g per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Cottage cheese (9.4g per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Almonds (21.1g per 100g)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Whey or casein protein powder (24-30g per scoop)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Pea or soy protein powder (20-25g per scoop)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">As you incorporate protein sources into your diet, remember that some protein sources are \u201ccomplete\u201d (containing all nine essential amino acids) while others are \u201cincomplete\u201d (containing some of the nine essential amino acids). If you\u2019re choosing incomplete sources, combine them to make sure you\u2019re consuming a complete protein source. For example, lentils, chickpeas, and quinoa are all incomplete proteins \u2013 but by combining quinoa and lentils together you can make a complete protein.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Protein is particularly important after resistance exercise to promote muscle repair and recovery \u2013 aim to eat a post-workout snack within 30 minutes that contains both simple carbohydrates and a good quality protein source.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_drastically_cut_calories\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Don\u2019t drastically cut calories\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">While it can be tempting to drastically cut calories, particularly if your end goal is to both lose fat and gain muscle, this can be detrimental to the goal of building muscle mass.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Building muscle is a process that requires a caloric surplus \u2013 you need to be consuming more calories than you\u2019re expending daily. However, where these calories come from matters. Aim to prioritise high-quality lean proteins, whole grains, and unsaturated fats.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">As mentioned earlier, a modest bulk will require you to eat approximately 10% over <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/calculators\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">your TDEE<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">. Eating below your TDEE can risk you losing muscle \u2013 not building it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hit_your_lean_muscle_mass_goals_with_specialist_fitness_testing_at_My_Vital_Metrics\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\"><br \/>Hit your lean muscle mass goals with specialist fitness testing at My Vital Metrics\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Whether you\u2019re well into your bodybuilding journey or are looking to start building lean muscle mass, the team at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">My Vital Metrics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> is here to support your fitness goals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Our dedicated fitness and health testing lab was created to empower you to unlock your full performance potential and take control of your health. Whether you\u2019re looking for a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/services\/dexa\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">DEXA scan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> for body composition, VO2 Max testing, FatMax testing, RMR testing, a functional movement assessment, or rapid blood testing, testing at MVM is the ultimate way to maximise your gains.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">To find out more or to book your free fitness and nutritional consultation, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">reach out to My Vital Metrics today<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">!<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you\u2019re looking to build strength, bulk, gain muscle, increase your size, or gain weight, you\u2019ve probably heard an emphasis on building lean muscle mass.\u00a0 Technically, lean muscle is just\u2026 muscle. But when we talk about building lean muscle mass, we\u2019re really talking about building muscle while also gaining minimal fat.\u00a0 There\u2019s a lot of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":798848,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[38,32,59],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-798834","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-body-comp","category-fitlife","category-health-and-fitness-testing"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/798834","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=798834"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/798834\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/798848"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=798834"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=798834"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=798834"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}