Gaining weight while heavy lifting? (Female)

Rukadare

Hi!

So, I recently just started Jamie Eason's 12 week program found here if anyone is interested! (http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/jamie-eason-livefit-trainer.html)

Anyway, the first four weeks consist of no cardio, just heavy lifting. I've not lost any weight during this time (on week three), and have actually been gaining a bit. I'm wondering if this is muscle! I am eating a considerable amount of protein too.

Cardio starts in the 5th week, so I guess my question is is that I'm worried that I'm going to keep gaining and not losing any weight. I know muscle weighs more than fat, but I thought I'd at least be losing something. So yeah. Any thoughts or experiences with gaining muscle weight first and then shedding fat? I feel like I need reassurance to continue heavy lifting so that I don't just dive right into cardio for fast results. xD

cyncetastic

I'm very familar with Jamie's plan - and, yes, it is normal to maintain weight or even gain weight in Phase 1 because of the increase in calories and the lack of cardio. This is probably a combination of both muscle and a little bit of fat. Are you following the meal plan exactly?

Don't worry - in Phases 2 and 3 you will shed that extra weight/fat and really start to lean out. If you're not following the meal plan exactly - I definitely advise that you do! It's a great program and you can see awesome results with it if you follow it exactly as she has it laid out.

doubglass

your measurements are more important at this stage than weight. If you are gaining muscle thru heavy lifting, you may lose inches around the waist, gain in upper body and look trimmer while still weighing the same.