If your goal is to gain muscle, then it’s crucial that you do strength training.

There’s no way around it.

However, you canbuild muscle through strength trainingin various ways.

fitness man doing outdoor bodyweight exercises lunges to build muscle without heavy weights

Shutterstock

But lifting heavy isn’t the only way to make gains in the gym.

We spoke with an expert who breaks down exactly how to build muscle without heavy weights.

Slow down your movements.

woman performing deep squat stretches for weight loss outdoors with beautiful city view

Shutterstock

In our rapid-paced world, it’s more crucial than ever to take the time to slow down.

Switch up your exercises.

Avoid stagnancy with your workouts by switching up your exercises.

bulgarian split squat exercise, how to get rid of leg fat

Shutterstock

For example, try hitting the same muscle groups from different angles.

For example, if you love lunges, try Bulgarian split squats instead.

If pushups are a favorite, try staggered pushups.

fit woman rowing at gym to build muscle without heavy weights

Shutterstock

There are endless possibilities!"

The Ultimate Muscle-Building Workout Every Man Over 40 Should Try

Do muscle-building cardio.

“Different cardio machines also target specific muscles.

woman doing pushups to build muscle without heavy weights

Shutterstock

Likewise, the stair climber or incline treadmills are great leg-and glute-building tools.”

9 Best Exercises for Men To Get Bigger, Stronger Legs

Master basic movements.

When building muscle mass, form is more critical than weight.

cutting board with different protein foods on it in the kitchen

Shutterstock

These include pushups, pull-ups, planks, and squats, to name a few," states Meier.

Pay attention to your nutrition.

“Even if you aren’t lifting heavy, ensure you get enough nutrients for your muscles to grow.

This especially goes for protein, which your muscles need to repair themselves,” says Meier.