Weight lifters and bodybuilders may want to get cut or bulk up, depending on what they are trying to achieve with their workouts. Getting cut, or obtaining muscle definition, includes lifting weights to tone your muscles. Bulking up involves adding more mass to your muscles and muscle tone. Consult your physician before you change your diet or begin a new exercise routine.

Getting Cut

To appear ripped with strong muscle definition, you need to lose any excess fat that may be hiding your muscles. The only way to lose weight is to burn more calories than you consume. Consume fewer calories per day by eating more complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables. To lose approximately 1 pound a week, you should eat 500 fewer calories per day. Add cardiovascular workouts to your strength training several times a week.

Bulking Up

Instead of just toning up, you may want to increase your muscle mass while you work out. Although cutting calories is not important when you are trying to bulk up, you still should ensure that you are eating healthy food with all of your nutrients. Instead of eating larger meals per day, eat more often, at least five to six times per day. To increase your mass, increase your calories by drinking high-calorie drinks and smoothies throughout the day.

Strength Training

Whether you are trying to get cut or bulk up, you need to add strength or weight training. In strength training, you use your own body weight to increase your muscles, such as doing pushups or pull-ups. These are a good starting point but will not make your muscles huge. You also need to lift with free weights. You should lift three days a week so your muscles can rest between workouts.

Precautions

Consult your physician about any drawbacks. People with certain conditions, such as diabetes, have to follow medical diets and should adhere to medical advice. There are various protein supplements that may help you bulk up. However, choose supplements from a reputable company. When lifting weights, make sure you have a partner with you to act as a spotter. Do not lift heavier weights than you can safely handle on your own.