It can be a little difficult to build lean muscle and lost fat – especially when you are not sure exactly how to go about it. Many people try either diet or exercise and sometimes both, but it can be a little tricky figuring out just the right combination. If you really want to gain more lean muscle mass and burn excess fat, it will take some determination on your part. Sometimes, it can be a bit frustrating trying to get it right, but you will be rewarded for your diligence in the end.

It is easy to sabotage yourself by following the latest fad diets and erroneous muscle building tips. In order to achieve your goal, it is essential that you follow proven advice. Here are five tips that will help you get lean muscle and shed fat more quickly than you may have imagined.

Tip #1 – Drink More Water

Your body is approximately 80% water and needs to water for all of its functions – including building muscle and shedding fat. This means that you will need to consume at least eight glasses or more of water per day. Though the liquids you consume do not have to be pure water, it is best if they are. Stay away from caffeinated drinks and sugary drinks like soda. If you do not like the taste of pure water, add a twist of lemon or lime or try one of the non-carbonated flavored water drinks. Remember, clear liquids are best.

Tip #2 – Eat Frequent, Small Meals

To keep your body energized and burning calories at an optimum rate, you need to keep your metabolism stoked. You can accomplish this by eating small meals at regular intervals – every 3 to 4 hours. In this way, you keep encourage lean muscle mass and fat loss.

Tip #3 – Add Weights/Strength Training to Your Workout

Doing tons of aerobics will help you somewhat with your fat loss goals. However, it is essential that you are also building lean muscle, and the best way to do this is by adding strength training exercises to your routine. Though muscle weighs more than fat, it takes up less space (making you smaller) and gives your metabolism a needed boost. You will burn calories for hours after a workout. This is why programs such as Curves are such a phenomenal success.

Tip #4 – Perform Compound Exercises

Try to perform free weight exercises that work combinations of muscle groups with each exercise. In this way, you will work your body more effectively than if you used standard isolation exercises.

Tip #5 – Allow Recovery Time between Workouts

Many people miss the boat on this one. In order for you to facilitate lean muscle in your body, you MUST allow your muscles to rest between workouts. Allow at least a day of rest between workout routines for each muscle group.