Gym goers...Did you get bigger before you got smaller?

Kittyy1994

Hi guys, in the last couple of months I have added a lot more weights and strength training to my routine 4 days a week. I have heard that weight training is where it is at however I have actually put on a tiny bit of weight and feel bigger particularly in the thighs... some people have been telling me that this is normal and usually when you start weight training you build muscle before you start losing fat which could explain why this has occurred... Obviously feeling bigger and gaining 2-3kg has left me discouraged and not wanting to continue this training as my aim was not to get bigger.... I have been told to persist and the weight will start to drop off but I’m not so sure. Has this happened to anyone else and what was the outcome? Thanks

sardelsa

Many people find they retain water when starting a new exercise program, especially lifting weights. This can result in the scale going up or stalls and some increased water in in the muscles giving a pumped up appearance. This is usually temporary and can last a few weeks. If you are in a deficit over time, you should notice your appearance getting smaller while you lose weight. Keep up with the program. Lifting weights while losing is one of the best things you can do for your health, your body composition and your confidence.

csplatt

a lot of the pros on this site will say you have to choose between "cutting" (calorie deficit for losing fat, which will take a little muscle mass with it) and "bulking" (intentionally putting on muscle). they seem to go back and forth to get the look they want.

whmscll

I started lifting while eating at a calorie deficit a couple of months ago. I had this same question. My thighs initially felt huge. Then some of the fat DID come off, and my thighs look much better now than they did when I started. However, one “skinny” dress I was hoping to fit back into fits everywhere but the straight skirt. The skirt pulls and my legs bulge out of it so that it looks awful. I bought it several years ago at the same weight I am now, and it looked amazing then. I am hoping that as I continue to lift and eat at a small deficit more fat will come off and I’ll be able to wear this dress again. I also don’t look as good in jeans yet as I had hoped I would. But I look better naked than I did before. And I very much like being stronger, so Ikm keeping it up for now.

anl90

Yep, it has happened to me. The scale went up some before it went down. It's normal - after a couple of week is when I started noticing the change, and it started going back down. Keep going! It sounds like you are doing great. (:

Jthanmyfitnesspal

It depends mostly on what you eat.