I’m a runner and want to stay in shape but don’t want to be too bulky.

Q: After years of running, I’m looking to make a change. What can I do to stay in shape? I don’t want to get too bulky.

A: This is probably my most hated objection that people raise —“I don’t want to get too bulky.” Let me cut to the chase: Lifting weights won’t make you “bulky.” If you want to bulk up, you can use a specific protocol designed to achieve that end. There is nothing about weight training that automatically makes people bulky; rather it is the manner of training in conjunction with a specific diet that will cause you to bulk up. Try lifting to take the place of running. If you like it, keep doing it. But if you find that you are becoming “bulky” and don’t like it, just stop lifting weights, and you can get back to the skinny body you had as a runner. Problem solved.

Editor’s note: Ben White won his first IFBB professional bodybuilding contest, the Tampa Pro, in 2010. He is also a champion powerlifter and frequently competes in the World’s Strongest Bodybuilder contest at the Olympia. His best competition bench press is 711 pounds. He is an MPH athlete, www.MHPStong.com.  IM