Running but little leg diff

jernigan51

Ok I've been running for a few months and am now loving it, but I feel like my legs aren't getting an smaller even though I keep losing weight. I haven't actually measured, but what's the deal? Thoughts!?

AZTrailRunner

Your body takes the fat from wherever it needs it, not necessarily the muscles you happen to be working.

unsuspectingfish

Also, by running, you're adding muscle to them, so they're probably not going to get very small, anyway. I consider that a good thing.

rajivdubey

Measure your thigh, you must have built muscle and lost inches!

wbgolden

Your body takes the fat from wherever it needs it, not necessarily the muscles you happen to be working.

Listen to this guy.

spacecase76

I haven't noticed much change in my thighs--I started running about 6 months ago. I have noticed all over thinning though, I will take it!

sarah307

bump
i noticed since i started running my legs are a little thicker. but more muscular .. hmm curious to see what others say

AZTrailRunner

Your legs should strengthen, but won't necessarily bulk up unless you are hammering the hills or supplementing with gym work and eating a caloric surplus (required to build muscle). Typical "runners" don't have big muscular legs as that would create a conflict with the body's natural power-to-weight ratio. In other words, look at most distance runners at the elite level; they have lean, sculpted legs, but not big and muscular (excluding sprinters).

Also, it takes a long time to build muscle. Think of building 1 lb of muscle in terms of months, not weeks.

Take measurements though, just to be certain.

jernigan51

Thanks all, I'll keep all of these things in mind. Makes me feel better, just going to be one of those "frustrating" things for me I guess!