Ever watch someone bench press a ridiculous amount of weight but not look quite like this? Or hit the gym every day and still have a beer belly? It’s not an illusion— some people can be in shape even if they don’t quite look the part. In fact, those who are less-than-ripped but still fit may have a lesser risk for cardiovascular disease than their skinny-but-sedentary peers.

(Over)weight Lifting — Why It Matters

It may sound like a paradox, but a small percentage 

of U.S. adults are both in shape but overweight [1]. And unfortunately, a gym membership isn’t necessarily the secret to weight loss. People can frequent yoga classes, cardio machines, and CrossFit boxes and still carry some unwanted pounds.

Wait, what? While it may seem that the scale gets stubbornly stuck, all that exercising may be fueling an appetite that leads to consuming too many calories. Another common setback: Doing the same workout over and over may no longer challenge the body.

But what’s on the scale may not be the most important factor when measuring good health. Scientists suggest lack of exercise might raise the risk of heart disease more than excess body fat. In one study with 906 women, researchers found that participants with lower levels of fitness showed a clearer connection to cardiovascular problems than those who were overweight (measured by BMI) [2]. The takeaway? Fitness capacity may be more critical than body mass index to prevent heart disease risk.

Chubby Competition — The Answer/Debate

Many studies have shown a positive correlation between working out and better overall health [3] [4]. Yet, regular exercise isn’t the only answer to dodging every health risk. If we (literally) tip the scale despite being a total gym rat, it’s a good idea to try shedding some excess pounds— through plan B. It’s never too late to clean up that diet, since obesity may lead to cardiovascular problems [5].

The big-bottomed line? Even if we’re exercising, we can still carry some extra baggage. Exercise burns calories, but at the end of the day, stay mindful of how many calories are taken in, or if that workout regimen needs some variation. And remember, being fit isn’t all about appearances, and the benefits of working out are more than skin deep.

Do you usually equate being fit with appearance? Would you ever work with a personal trainer that was overweight?  Let us know in the comments below!

Photo by Ben Draper

This article has been read and approved by Greatist Expert Vicki Vara.