Im confused about lifting heavy!

[PaulCaine5]

I have a question that could speed up my development.

People say that lifting heavy and doing around 4-8 resps is better than lifting weights that allow you to rack out around 10 reps. Is lifting heavy better for building muscle or toning, or both? Because I would like to do both but initially I want to build muscle and bulk up. Is diet the only factor in cutting up and getting definition?

Anyone got any ideas?

[ChrisFL]

I think you might benefit from some of Cursor's advice in this thread.

[cursor]

Thanks ChrisFL. You took the words right out of my mouth ...

[PaulCaine5]

Ive just looked at that thread and was going to post this reply onto that thread. I am still confused because I thought that lifting heavy increased strength and does not give definition?

[cursor]

Definintion and Toning are two terms that imply 1) that you have muscle to show, and 2) that your body fat is low enough that the muscle has distinguishing definition that can be visibly appreciated.

Heavy lifting with fewer reps develops muscle and burns fat ... thus contributing to Definintion and Toning. The world of fitness would be less confusing for many if those two words were simply flushed.

[PaulCaine5]

Cheers for clearing that up. Im probably gonna start with a higher weight. Thanks to everyone who contributed.

[PaulCaine5]

Just like to say that Ive started lifting heavy and it feels a lot better than doing lots of reps and lifting light. Thanks for the advice everyone.

[cursor]

Wise move. Not only will the workouts feel superior, the will, over time produce genuine results. Good luck!