Toning up and getting in shape are popular and common statements by club members and personal training clients. However, these two phrases used as goals lack definition and measurability. Those claiming a need to get into shape and get toned may wish to change how their body looks. Tone is a quality of tension at rest that all muscles have. If they did not have tone, you would crumble to the floor because of a lack of stability and muscle tension.
Shape is a characteristic of form or contour.
What is a pleasing shape to one may not be pleasing to someone else. So if appearance is what one is truly trying to affect, weight loss and muscle hypertrophy are believed to be the agents of change and exercise, training and physical activity help elicit those changes. It is crucial to understand that appearance is not directly related to improved ability, improved health or improved quality of life. It is true, however, that being lean and strong are appearance qualities that may add to improved health and performance. There is no objective information that indicates what makes an individual toned or in shape.