Hey everyone,
I'm a 25-year-old female who has been working out for a few years now, but I'm struggling with building muscle mass and toning up without bulking up too much. I want to have a lean and toned physique, but I don't want to look overly bulky or masculine.
I currently do weightlifting and some HIIT cardio exercises, but I'm not sure if I'm doing the right exercises or using the right weights to achieve my desired look. I've heard conflicting advice on whether high reps and low weights or low reps and high weights are better for toning without bulking, so I'm not sure which approach to take.
I eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein, but I'm not sure if I should be adjusting my calorie intake or macronutrient ratios to support my goals.
Any advice or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.

Hi there,
I completely understand what you're going through. As a 22-year-old female, I have been trying to build muscle mass and tone up without bulking up too much. But I have found it difficult to figure out a fitness routine that works for me.
I have found that a mix of weight lifting and bodyweight exercises has been the most effective for me. But more importantly, it was my patience that yielded results. It takes time and effort to tone up without bulking up. It's important to keep in mind that muscle growth takes time, so overdoing it in the gym isn't always the best approach.
In terms of nutrition, I would suggest meeting with a registered dietitian or a sports nutritionist to help tailor your diet to your goals. For me, ensuring that I have enough protein sources in my diet like chicken, tofu, and beans has been critical. It also ensures that I am recovering properly from my workout sessions.
I believe that it's important to be consistent with your exercise routine, have patience with the process, and ensure that you're fueling yourself with the right nutrition. The body has its own timeline, and with hard work and patience, you can achieve your goals.