Veiny arms are determined by both genetics and body fat.
Dear Davey,
Something tells me it’s genetic, but I want those bad ass bicep veins!
A friend of mine has them and he doesn’t do any of the lifting and cardio that I do. Am I not lifting enough? Am I not running enough? Please help, Davey Wavey, it’s almost beach season.
Yours truly,
Nardo90
Dear Nardo90,
Getting visible veins wasn’t something that the instructors taught us during my personal training courses, but I know where you’re coming from. It’s admittedly superficial, but still quite sexy. Beyond the biceps, I also enjoy veins in the area just below the lower abs, leading down to the crotch. Shallow? Yes. But also a bit delicious.
First things first, the amount to which your veins “pop” is determined by both your genetics and your body fat percentage. Since you can’t change your genes, it makes sense to focus on what you can control: Leaning yourself out. To make your veins highly visible, target a body fat percentage of 6% – 8% through a combination of strength training (increased muscle mass will incinerate calories), cardio (especially interval training) and proper diet. At 9% – 12% most major veins should be visible.
While veins in the forearms are easier to achieve, it’s much more difficult with the biceps, triceps and shoulders. It will take time and dedication, but if it’s very important to you – it’s possible to make it happen.
Also, keep in mind that veins are more visible after you exercise and when your body is dehydrated. While I don’t recommend dehydration as a tactic – as it’s actually very detrimental – it is how many body builders achieve the effects you see in pictures and in magazines. That, and sometimes a little help from Photoshop. 
Love,
Davey
veins shmeins
just aim for a healthy and balanced body.
trying to get veins to show is probably one of the most shallow things to shoot for.
i dont say that because i dont have them, but because i couldnt give two shits whether or not i do.
Visible veins to me are such a turn off!
I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but they just broadcast the fact that someone is totally self obsessed and would rather be in the gym than anywhere else.
I’m young and want to better myself in every way, shallow and deep. The habits I’m establishing right now are aesthetic, but in time, and through maturity, i’ll find out there’s more to working out than looking damn good. Self-discipline is something my generation can use, no matter how it’s obtained. And thank you DW, I’m already altering my diet. I just need to push myself a bit harder. <3
you have officially ran out of worthy topics…
Also, dehydration can SHRINK the size of the veins, making it harder to see them anyway, so you’re better off just reducing your body fat.
DW-is spot on in his assessment of popping veins-lean muscle-strict diet genetics-all these factors need to come into play-its sheer disipline-and discipline is rewarded by perfection.if-as some say this is shallow thought-so be it.there is a price on perfection-and that is dedication.
“Veins,” I’ve wanted ‘em for a long time. I’ll say this: it’s not in my genetics, but through weight loss & good workouts, I’m getting there. It’s all about low body fat%.. all the years of working out, then shows. Cut back on salt, hit the tanning bed, & you’re good to go. Yes, we’re all vain; but in the words of a fellow Marine: losers always say they did there best; winners go home & fuck prom queen.