{"id":802259,"date":"2024-06-07T14:08:48","date_gmt":"2024-06-07T14:08:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-reasons-your-calorie-deficit-isnt-working-copy\/"},"modified":"2024-06-14T15:17:32","modified_gmt":"2024-06-14T15:17:32","slug":"blog-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Body Composition Exercises for Fat Loss and Muscle Gain"},"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; collapsed=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#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;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Open Sans||||||||&#8221; link_font=&#8221;|600|||||||&#8221; ul_text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">If you\u2019re looking to lose fat, gain muscle, or both, then body composition exercises can play a key role in your fitness plan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">The best training plan will take into account your goals, current fitness level, and the time you can commit to training. The exercises in this blog are a great (and customisable!) starting place as you work to get more active.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">However, it\u2019s important to bear in mind that sustainable, long-term changes to your body composition require a commitment to nutrition as well as exercise.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_body_composition\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">What is body composition?<\/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-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#What_is_body_composition\" >What is body composition?<\/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-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#What_affects_body_composition\" >What affects body composition?<\/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-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#Why_is_body_composition_important\" >Why is body composition important?<\/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-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#How_to_improve_your_body_composition\" >How to improve your body composition<\/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-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#Nutrition_for_body_composition\" >Nutrition for body composition<\/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-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#Exercise_for_body_composition\" >Exercise for body composition\u00a0<\/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-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#Measure_your_body_composition\" >Measure your body composition<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#Best_exercises_for_body_composition\" >Best exercises for body composition<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#Lower_body_exercises\" >Lower body exercises<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#Upper_body_exercises\" >Upper body exercises<\/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-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#Core_and_stability_exercises\" >Core and stability exercises<\/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-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#Explosive_and_compound_exercises\" >Explosive and compound exercises<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-body-composition-exercises-for-fat-loss\/#Ready_to_transform_your_body_composition\" >Ready to transform your body composition?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-fat-vs-muscle\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Body composition<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> describes the elements your body is made up of, including fat, visceral fat, muscle, bone, water, and other tissues. Sometimes, body composition is split into just two components \u2013\u00a0 fat mass and fat-free mass.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/improve-body-composition\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Improving body composition<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> is a common goal, whether for athletic performance, aesthetics, or the many health benefits of a leaner physique. Most often, body composition includes fat loss, muscle gain, or a combination of the two.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_affects_body_composition\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">What affects body composition?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">A variety of factors influence our body composition. Some of these include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Genetics<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Exercise and general activity level<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Diet and nutrition<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Stress levels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Sleep quality and amount<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Any underlying health conditions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Hormones\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">In this article, we\u2019ll be focusing on the second of these: exercise. However, diet and nutrition are an essential part of any body recomposition program. If your goal is fat loss and you have limited time, then adjusting your caloric intake to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/calculators-tdee\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">reflect your TDEE<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> may be the most effective task to prioritise.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_body_composition_important\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Why is body composition important?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Having a healthy body composition is linked to a range of health benefits, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Improved sleep quality<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Improved mood<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Improved lung function and breathing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Increased energy throughout the day<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Improved blood circulation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Reduced joint pain and improved mobility\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Plus, a healthy body composition can help decrease your risk of developing:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC2658023\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Type 2 Diabetes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> and insulin resistance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/17110092\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Cardiovascular disease<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> (CVD) and cardiovascular events (stroke or heart attack)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">High cholesterol levels (a risk factor for CVD)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Of course, there are plenty of valid reasons for seeking to lose fat or gain muscle. That being said, maintaining a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-what-is-a-healthy-body-fat-percentage\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">healthy body fat percentage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> is one of the most impactful things we can do to take care of our health and decrease the risk of adverse health outcomes. A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/services\/dexa\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">DEXA scan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> is the gold-standard method for assessing body composition, and a great way to track your progress.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_improve_your_body_composition\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">How to improve your body composition<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/shutterstock_2115637937.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;A young, athletic man sits smiling on the gym floor, with a white towel folded over his shoulder and headphones around his neck. Gym equipment is visible in the background, and a bottle and a resistance band are on the floor beside him. &#8221; title_text=&#8221;shutterstock_2115637937&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.2&#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;\">Improving your body composition by losing fat, gaining muscle, or both tends to require a two-pronged approach that incorporates a healthy diet and an increased amount of movement.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nutrition_for_body_composition\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Nutrition for body composition<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">The amount and type of food we eat has a big effect on our body composition.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Consuming more calories than we use (a caloric surplus) will lead to weight gain, while consuming fewer calories than we use (a caloric deficit) will lead to weight loss.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">If you\u2019re looking to lose fat, then the most effective way to create a calorie deficit is via your diet. The popular lore that you <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/you-cant-exercise-your-way-out-of-an-unhealthy-diet\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">\u201ccan\u2019t out-train an unhealthy diet\u201d<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> stands true in most instances, as it takes a <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">lot <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">of exercise to balance out a caloric surplus. While exercise can contribute to a calorie deficit (and create more \u2018\u201croom\u201d in your calorie allowance), it can be difficult to maintain a calorie deficit from exercise alone.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Depending on your body composition goals, you may want to:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Increase your caloric intake to build muscle\/gain weight<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Decrease your caloric intake to lose fat\/lose weight<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Maintain your caloric intake to maintain your weight<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Establishing a daily calorie goal starts with knowing your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE). You can use our custom <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/calculators-tdee\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">BMR and TDEE calculator<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> to get started.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Calorie deficit not working? Check out these <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-reasons-your-calorie-deficit-isnt-working\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">top 8 reasons why<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Exercise_for_body_composition\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Exercise for body composition\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">There are two main types of exercise for body composition: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/weights-vs-cardio-for-recomposition\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">cardio and strength training<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">. Let\u2019s take a look at each.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Cardio<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Cardio exercise \u2013 such as running, swimming, or cycling at a moderate intensity \u2013 trains the cardiovascular system, strengthening the lungs and heart. Cardio is a great way to stay fit, improve endurance, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-to-improve-your-vo2-max\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">build aerobic capacity<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Cardio is also often used as a way to burn calories, typically to create or increase a caloric deficit as a part of a weight loss plan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">However, cardio isn\u2019t a particularly effective method of burning calories. It\u2019s often time-consuming, increases hunger, and can result in the body \u201ccompensating\u201d for the burn by cutting energy expenditure in other areas. This means that cardio alone isn\u2019t the best way to meet your body recomposition goals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Strength training<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">While many assume strength training equates to lifting heavy weights, strength training can take many forms. Free weights, weight machines, bodyweight exercises, calisthenics, resistance exercises, and cable suspension exercises all constitute strength training.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Strength training aims to build muscle (muscular hypertrophy), improve muscular endurance, and increase muscular power.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">When it comes to body composition, strength training is an essential component.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">While the calorie burn of strength training can be lower than that of its cardio counterpart, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/fitness\/benefits-of-strength-training\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">strength training has numerous benefits<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> for body recomposition. Strength training:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Helps build new muscle mass<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Increases strength\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/25293431\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Boosts metabolism<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/32804997\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Decreases abdominal fat<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Preserves muscle mass while in a caloric deficit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Increases calorie burn (since muscle is calorically expensive to maintain)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Regardless of whether your body composition goals are focused on losing fat or gaining muscle, it\u2019s essential to incorporate some strength training into your routine. Not sure where to begin? The body composition exercises below are a great place to start.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Measure_your_body_composition\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Measure your body composition<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Simply <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-how-accurate-are-body-fat-scales\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">tracking your weight<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> won\u2019t give insights into body composition changes. Luckily, plenty of more accurate ways to assess your body composition are available.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">The most accurate way to assess your body composition is with a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/services\/dexa\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">DEXA scan for body composition<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">. For more information on how a DEXA scan can complement your body composition exercises, check out our article on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/blog-lose-fat-with-a-dexa-scan-for-body-fat\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">how to lose fat with a DEXA scan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_exercises_for_body_composition\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Best exercises for body composition<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/shutterstock_749652706.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;A strong woman lifts a dumbbell over her head while in a low squat, with the other arm extended parallel to the ground. The background is dark. &#8221; title_text=&#8221;shutterstock_749652706&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#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;\">Whether you\u2019re looking to train body composition exercises at home or at the gym, the following body composition exercise groups have something for everyone. Aim to incorporate a variety of exercises from each type for a well-rounded workout routine.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lower_body_exercises\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Lower body exercises<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/shutterstock_425076214.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;A black man performs a back barbell squat in front a squat rack in an airy gym. &#8221; title_text=&#8221;shutterstock_425076214&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Lower body exercises target the muscles of your lower body, including your quads, glutes, hamstrings, and calves. Many lower body exercises also work out your core, as these muscles stabilise you as you perform the exercise.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Each of the exercises below has numerous iterations, so we\u2019ve included some of the most popular variations for you to try.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Squats<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">A squat is a compound movement that strengthens your hamstrings, glutes, quads, and calves, while engaging your core.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Here are some progressions to try:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 300;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Bodyweight squat:<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and lower until your thighs are parallel to the ground. Raise back up slowly.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Goblet squat: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Hold a dumbbell, kettlebell, or weighted ball to your chest. Look straight ahead, and squat as in a bodyweight squat. Keep the weight close to your body throughout the movement.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Front barbell squat: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Uses a barbell. Remove the bar from the squat rack, grip the bar shoulder-width apart, and, stepping back, support the bar with your chest. Keep your spine long as you drop into the squat, making sure the bar doesn\u2019t extend further than your toes. Reverse the squat, slowly, extending through the knees and hips. Re-rack the bar.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Barbell back squat: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Uses a barbell. Place the barbell across your shoulders and grip with both hands. Brace your core and bend into the squat. Reverse the squat by pushing up through both feet and through your lower body. Engage your glutes at the top and stand to finish.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">All of these squat variations can be performed at different weights. Experiment with feet positioning, weights, and reps until you find what works for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Lunges\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">A lunge is a standing exercise that strengthens your glutes, quads, and calves, while engaging your core muscles.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Try out the following variations:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Basic lunge: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">To perform a lunge, start with your feet hip-width apart, and take a long step forwards. Slowly bend both knees, to no more than a 90 degree angle. Hold the position before returning to the starting position. Repeat with the other leg.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Reverse lunge: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Perform as a basic lunge, but stepping backwards instead of forwards. Repeat with the other leg.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Walking lunge: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">A series of lunges performed in succession, alternating legs.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Side lunge: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Great for activating the hips and glutes. Step to the side instead of forwards, keeping the trailing leg straight. Return to standing and repeat with the other leg.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Jumping lunge: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Perform a basic lunge, and pause in position. Keeping your core engaged, jump into a lunge on the alternate leg. Repeat.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Deadlifts<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellfit.com\/how-to-do-the-deadlift-3498608#:~:text=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">deadlift<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> is a strength training powerhouse, targeting your whole body and focusing on your glutes, quads, hamstrings, lower back, and trapezius.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">While deadlifts are traditionally performed with a barbell, you can use any type of weight. If you\u2019re new to strength training, starting with two dumbbells or a light kettlebell can be a good way to learn the motions of the deadlift.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Give the following variations a try:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Classic deadlift: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Position your feet shoulder-width apart, and grip your weight of choice. Engage your core as you slowly lower the weight, keeping it close to your body and your knees softened. Push upwards from the legs to return to standing, keeping your arms extended and powering through your lower body. Slowly lower again. Repeat.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Staggered deadlift: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Begin with one foot slightly back, so the toes of your back foot align with the heel of your front. Perform as you would a classic deadlift. After you complete your reps, repeat with legs reversed.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">As with all the exercises on this list, experiment with what set up, weight, and variations work best for you.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Upper_body_exercises\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Upper body exercises<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/shutterstock_2228263009-1.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;Two men and a woman lie on the floor ready to perform a push-up with their hands placed on dumbells. &#8221; title_text=&#8221;shutterstock_2228263009 (1)&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Upper body exercises work out a wide range of muscles including your chest, shoulders, biceps, triceps, and core.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Give the following exercises a try:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Push ups: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">A classic for a reason, the push up targets your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core. Start in a plank position, keeping a straight line from your shouldes to ankles. Bending at the elbow, lower yourself to the ground, before pushing back up to a plank position. For an easier push up, perform against a wall, with hands raised on a bench, or on your knees. For a challenge, try wide push up, tricep push up, or clap push up variations.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Pull ups: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Targets the shoulders, back, and arm muscles. Hang from a bar with hands shoulder-width apart. Pull yourself up to meet the bar, then lower yourself slowly back to a hanging position.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Bench presses: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Targets the chest, shoulder, and arm muscles. Lying on a bench, hold a barbell or two dumbbells above your chest, with arms extended. Then, lower the weight to chest level, before pushing back up to the starting position.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Shoulder presses: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Targets the shoulders, chest, pecs, and traps. Using two dumbbells (or a machine), begin with weights at shoulder height. Engage your core and extend your arms, raising the weights above your head. Maintain a neutral spine, and slowly lower the weights to your starting position. Can be performed standing or seated.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">As with all the exercises on this list, experiment to find the set up, weight, and variations work best for you.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Core_and_stability_exercises\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Core and stability exercises<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/shutterstock_2248535321-1.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;A young woman holds a plank position on a yoga mat in the gym. A gym ball and other gym equipment is visible in the background. &#8221; title_text=&#8221;shutterstock_2248535321 (1)&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Core exercises strengthen far more than just your abs. Focusing on muscles from your neck down to your pelvis, core and stability exercises are an essential type of body composition exercise.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Make sure to incorporate a variety of core exercises, targeting different muscle groups, and making sure to work out both your back and front.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Some core body composition exercises to try:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Plank: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Helps develop core stability and targets abs, obliques, shoulders, and back muscles. Can be performed either on all fours or resting on your upper arms. Hold your body in a straight line, and hold for as long as you can.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Bird dog: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Starting from all fours, extend your left arm and right leg, return to neutral, then extend your right arm and left leg. This exercise works your core muscles and improves stability.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Russian twist: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">From sitting, bend your knees and bring them to your chest. Twist your torso from left to right, engaging the core muscles. Add a weight to increase difficulty.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Crunch: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Lying on your back, crunch your torso up, engaging your core. Lower slowly. Variations to try: bicycle crunch, reverse crunch, oblique crunch, standing crunch, tuck crunch.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Cable exercises: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Using a cable machine provides numerous opportunities for core and stability body composition exercises, including cable crunches, twists, and cross-body movements.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">For these core body composition exercises, you can increase difficulty by increasing reps or time or adding weight.<br \/>\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Explosive_and_compound_exercises\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Explosive and compound exercises<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/shutterstock_2093638672-1.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;A woman performs each step of a burpee: crouched, holding a plank position, preparing to stand, and jumping. &#8221; title_text=&#8221;shutterstock_2093638672 (1)&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Compound exercises target more than one muscle group at once, giving them a great ROI and extra calorie burn. Explosive movements combine strength, speed, and power and require a near-maximum effort to perform.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Adding compound and explosive movements into your body composition exercise routine can help build strength, endurance, and power and make for a great whole-body workout.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Give the following exercises a try:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Burpee: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">A high intensity exercise that targets your whole body while boosting cardiovascular stamina. Begin in a low squat position, jump to a plank hold, jump back to a low squat, then jump to standing to finish the rep. Optionally, add a push up from the plank position.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Box jump: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">From standing, bend your knees and power through the ball of your feet to jump onto a box. Land with both feet. Step off the box and repeat.\u00a0 <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Jump squats: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Begin with feet shoulder-width apart and drop into a bodyweight squat. Swing your arms behind you at the lowest point of the squat, then swing them as you jump upwards. Land in a squat. Repeat.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 600;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 600;\">Kettlebell swings: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Targets the posterior chain. Starting from standing with feet shoulder-width apart, hold a kettlebell straight down. Swing your hips back, bend your knees, and bring the kettlebell in a \u201cswing\u201d between your legs. Engage your core and push your hips forward as you swing the kettlebell forward as far as your arms will extend. Lower the kettlebell back to neutral to complete the rep.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Some of the exercises we\u2019ve already covered, such as squats, deadlifts, and push ups work as great compound movements, too.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ready_to_transform_your_body_composition\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 500;\">Ready to transform your body composition?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Body composition exercises are an important component of your body recomposition journey. However, they\u2019re not the whole story.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">If you\u2019re looking to transform your body composition, the best results will come from a personalised approach that tackles nutrition and exercise while taking into account your specific metabolic rate, current body composition, and movement abilities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">My Vital Metrics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> is London\u2019s best lab for health and human performance. We specialise in giving you the data you need to meet and exceed your health and performance goals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">From our gold-standard <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/services\/dexa\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">DEXA body composition scans<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\"> to our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/services\/body-composition-membership\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">Body Composition Membership<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 300;\">, we\u2019re here to help you succeed. To find out more or to book a free health and fitness 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>If you\u2019re looking to lose fat, gain muscle, or both, then body composition exercises can play a key role in your fitness plan.\u00a0 The best training plan will take into account your goals, current fitness level, and the time you can commit to training. The exercises in this blog are a great (and customisable!) starting [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":802264,"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":[38,12,32],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-802259","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-body-comp","category-dexa","category-fitlife"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/802259","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=802259"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/802259\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":802312,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/802259\/revisions\/802312"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/802264"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=802259"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=802259"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myvitalmetrics.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=802259"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}