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What causes plateaus and are they normal?

Allan1962
Allan1962 Posts: 3 Member
edited November 2024 in Health and Weight Loss
I have heard people talking about hitting a plateau every once in a while, and as consistent as i have tried to be, I notice I've had a couple of them too. It seems as though this is normal, but what is causing this phenomenon? It is dispiriting when you weigh in expecting another drop and it's not there!

Replies

  • ninerbuff
    ninerbuff Posts: 49,120 Member
    I have heard people talking about hitting a plateau every once in a while, and as consistent as i have tried to be, I notice I've had a couple of them too. It seems as though this is normal, but what is causing this phenomenon? It is dispiriting when you weigh in expecting another drop and it's not there!
    First let's define plateau. A plateau in weight loss is 6 weeks or more of no weight loss while staying consistent in calorie deficit with/without exercise. Anything less than that is considered a stall. Stalls happen often and are temporary. There are many variables as what you may have eaten, sodium, stress that week, less intensity in your workouts, etc. Not everyday is going to be exact. Even just someone cutting you off on the freeway can temporarily raise your stress level.


    A.C.E. Certified Personal Trainer
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    Been in fitness for 28+ years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition
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