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The connecting rods employed in most of general-purpose engines with a power from 1.5 kW to 10 kW are manufactured from aluminum alloy in order to increase productivity and reduce weight, and therefore display lower material strength than steel connecting rods. In terms of operating conditions, general-purpose engines are frequently operated under high load while being held at a comparatively low engine speed, necessitating strength and durability in relation to combustion pressure. Realizing a balance between the rigidity of each part is an important factor in reconciling the achievement of weight reduction in the reciprocating parts while also keeping strength. The research discussed in this paper developed a structure optimization system to examine shape parameters for reciprocating parts targeting 4 kW class engines, and studied shapes that would balance the reduction of weight with the keeping of strength.