Bodybuilding Questions - Look Lean & Toned Without Being Bulky

Bodybuilding Question:
I am 23 years old, 5 foot 7 and weigh 129 pounds. I've been working out for about 4-5 years and have lost 35 pounds. Within the last 2 years I have been taking 1 aerobic class a week, 2 weight lifting classes (heavy weight with low reps) and I've also been running about 30 minutes, 3-4 times a week at 6.0 mph. I have gained about 4 pounds in the last 2 years and the number seems to be going up not down.

I want to lose weight and look lean with out being bulky. I know that some of my weight gain is due to muscle but that doesn't help the way I feel in my jeans. I want to look lean not bulky! How can I decrease the bulk in my legs? Do I need to reduce the amount of weight I use during squats, even if that means I don't feel the workout as much? To lose weight, do I need to increase cardio and reduce weight lifting? Is it true that cardio should be done after weight lifting? Also, I know that diet is a large part of weight loss but I really do eat well. What am I doing wrong? Please help!

Bodybuilding Answer:
Here are a few tips for you:

#1. Do not decrease the weight you use for strength training. You want to build the most muscle as possible since muscle burns extra calories.

#2. Increase cardio to 6-7 days a week and do them first thing in the morning on an empty stomach to maximize fat loss. If you can't do cardio in the morning, do it after weights (never before).

#3. Diet is the absolute key to losing fat and toning up. When in doubt, always look at your diet first!

#4. Try cutting out all starchy food (bread, rice, pasta, etc.) and fruit after 5pm. Stick with lean protein and veggies later in the day.

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