Appreciating & Optimizing the Not Skinny But Not Fat Body Type

Understanding Your Body Type

Many people feel insecure about their bodies, wishing they were thinner or curvier. However, comparing yourself to others is rarely productive. Instead, focus on understanding your unique body type so you can learn how to keep your body healthy and strong.

The "Not Skinny But Not Fat" Body Type

Some people have a body that falls in between the extremes of very slender and plus-sized. Their not skinny but not fat body type is considered athletic or average in build.

Those with an athletic body type have more muscle mass distributed evenly throughout their body. They may gain muscle easily when strength training with weights. An athletic body shape allows room for some curvier areas while maintaining a relatively low body fat percentage.

Characteristics of This Body Type

There are a few key characteristics of the not skinny but not fat body type:

• Moderate fat distribution rather than storage predominately in one area
• Room for curves without significant excess body fat
• A medium to large bone structure that can support more muscle
• Tends to gain both muscle and fat more evenly across the body

While genetics play a role, lifestyle habits also greatly impact your health and fitness at any body weight.

Optimizing Your Body Composition

Aim to have a body fat percentage around 25% for women and 18% for men. This allows enough essential fat for health without excess that could increase disease risk.

Diet Recommendations

A balanced diet focused on whole foods nourishes an athletic body type well. Emphasize:

• Lean proteins like chicken, fish, eggs, beans, nuts
• Fresh fruits and vegetables for vitamins, minerals and fiber
• Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and Ezekiel bread
• Healthy fats from avocado, olive oil, nuts and seeds

Stay adequately hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Limit processed foods, sugars and saturated fats that can promote fat storage.

Beneficial Exercises

Perform a mix of cardiovascular exercise and strength training most days of the week for fitness. Good options include:

• Interval training with running, biking or swimming
• Yoga or Pilates for building lean muscle mass
• Lifting weights with squats, lunges and presses
• Using your body weight for pushups, pullups and planks

Focus on proper form to effectively work your muscles during each exercise.

Embracing Your Body Type

A not skinny but not fat body type that stays reasonably fit and toned can be healthy and aesthetically pleasing. But the number one priority is nurturing the incredible body you have.

Self-Acceptance

Practice self-acceptance regarding your natural body type, understanding it is largely determined by genetics. Appreciate your body's unique strengths and capabilities. Do not judge yourself harshly based on diet habits or workout routines.

Avoid Comparisons

Refrain from endless comparisons to celebrities, social media influencers and others. Their bodies do not dictate how yours should look. Be your own person with personalized health goals based on realistic expectations.

Shift Your Mindset

Catch yourself when expressing negative self-talk about your body. Shift to more neutral or positive perspectives focused on functionality vs aesthetics. You deserve to feel confident and worthy no matter your size or shape.

Learning to properly fuel, move and respect your not skinny but not fat body type will help you achieve balance physically and mentally. Define your own beauty standards instead of chasing unrealistic ideals that minimize your self-worth. Your body deserves appreciation for everything it allows you to experience and accomplish.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.