In the past, it was assumed that people with pear-shaped bodies were healthier; but, a study posted by the UC Davis Health System in January 2013 shows that this might be untrue. Every body shape has its advantages and disadvantages. If you're pear-shaped, understanding how your body works can help you better tailor a weight-loss plan that's successful.

Pear Shape

If you have a pear-shaped body, that means you tend to carry most of your weight in your thighs, hips and buttocks. In contrast, a person with an apple-shaped body carries most of her weight in her abdomen. Although a pear-shaped person has less chances of getting heart disease, the fat in the buttocks secretes a chemical that can cause insulin resistance, a prediabetic condition, according to "The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism."

Resistance Training

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One of the best ways for someone with a pear-shaped body to lose weight is by doing resistance training. Not only will you burn calories that will help with weight loss, but you will also be able to sculpt and tone your body. Some women who have pear-shaped bodies fear bulking up if they do weight training, but most women don't have the testosterone levels needed to experience this problem. When you have more muscle than fat achieved through resistance training, you'll have an easier time losing weight since muscle burns more calories than fat. You'll also help combat the appearance of cellulite stored in thighs, hips and buttocks -- the problem areas for pear-shaped women. Cellulite gets a smoother appearance when the muscles beneath the cellulite are more toned.

Complex Circuits

Pear-shaped women will benefit from doing complex circuit training, which uses moves that focus on sculpting the body combined with cardio in a circuit format. This will help you lose weight while defining muscles. Circuit training that tones the upper body will help by offering proportional wight loss. Examples of complex circuit exercises include push-ups, lunges, arm rows and squats. Do one exercise 12 to 20 times, moving to the next one with little to no break. This will keep your heart rate up, also helping you burn more calories.

Focused Diet

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Pears don't need to lose weight in their belly as much as in their buttocks and thighs, which can be tougher to lose. The right diet for a pear-shaped woman focuses on lowering fats. Instead of foods with refined sugars, eat fiber-rich complex carbohydrates like whole-grain breads, beans and lentils. Instead of high-fat foods, eat lean proteins like fish or white meat chicken. Add fruits and vegetables to the mix. This combination will help a pear-shaped woman lose weight faster.