How to Gain Weight & Have a Curved Figure

Many women desire to have a curvy, healthy figure. Getting your body into the hourglass shape you want can be frustrating, especially if you have to gain weight. If you put on pounds in the wrong places---like too much weight around the middle---the results can include ill-fitting clothes and a lack of self-esteem. According to Go Ask Alice, an advice service provided by Columbia University, the key to a curvy figure is a proper diet and physical activity.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine the amount of weight you need to gain. According to the National Heart and Lung Institute, a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) is between 18.5 and 24.9. It is important to stay within the healthy range to avoid health problems. You can check your current BMI and review your goal BMI online at nhlbisupport.com.

• 2

  Change your eating habits. Although you plan to gain weight, avoid eating unhealthy foods like pizza and French fries. Increase the number of calories you consume each day by 250 to 500 calories. Visit the grocery store and purchase lean proteins that will help tone your muscles. Carbohydrates help you gain weight and give your body energy, and you should eat complex carbohydrates such as whole wheat bread and sweet potatoes.

• 3

  Start exercising. The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes of moderate cardiovascular activity five times a week. Work out on the elliptical trainer or take a brisk walk around your neighborhood. To develop curves, start a strength and resistance training routine. You can do this at home or in a gym. Train for 45 minutes every other day, alternating muscle groups. For example, on Monday, focus on the lower body and the abdominal muscles, then train your upper body on Wednesday.

• 4

  Weigh yourself. Check your weight at the end of each week, and if you are not gaining as much as you want, increase your calories by another 250 each day. You can also try drinking whey protein shakes as they will help you gain pounds and repair your muscles.