Actress Sung Yu-ri, a former member of the iconic K-pop group Fin.K.L, recently showcased her ongoing dedication to fitness, proving how consistent workouts maintain a toned physique.
On August 17, Sung shared a photo on social media with the caption, “Time to go do cardio. Gotta go, gotta go…” Dressed in black athletic wear with her hair pulled back, she documented her session at the gym. Based on her grip-toe socks, she appeared to be preparing for a cardio session after completing Pilates and strength training.
Her commitment to exercising even on holidays continues to yield results: at 45, Sung maintains a remarkably lean and defined silhouette, showing slender arms, a narrow waist, and a flat stomach. After marrying former professional golfer Ahn Sung-hyun in 2017 and welcoming twin daughters in 2022, Sung saw her weight reach 80 kg during pregnancy before losing 30 kg post-birth. Rather than relying on crash dieting, she achieved her weight loss through structured exercise.
Building a Sculpted Foundation with Resistance Training
While exercise cannot alter bone length or natural body frame, reducing body fat while building lean muscle creates a longer, more defined appearance. For those seeking a firm, lean physique like Sung’s, pairing machine-based strength training with cardio is particularly effective.
Recommended exercises include the leg press to target the quadriceps and glutes, lat pulldowns and seated rows to strengthen the back and arms, and hip abductions and cable kickbacks to firm the lower body. Experts note that individuals aiming for a slender frame do not need to avoid working with resistance; using appropriate weights prevents muscle loss during calorie restriction and significantly improves body composition.
Combining Cardio and Pilates for Core Stability and Fat Loss
To maximize fat loss while preserving lean mass, strength training should be paired with aerobic exercise. Cardio increases total energy expenditure and boosts cardiorespiratory endurance, while resistance training protects muscle tissue during weight loss. Research consistently confirms that combined exercise routines yield superior improvements in body composition compared to single-modality training.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults complete 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise, alongside major muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week.
Pilates—a core component of Sung’s routine—further enhances trunk stability, flexibility, and posture. However, sports science experts caution that Pilates alone has limited capacity for significant fat reduction. Achieving a slim, balanced body requires integrating Pilates, resistance exercises, and cardio tailored to individual fitness levels, supported by long-term consistency and proper nutrition.
