Thigh flab

[hkbecky]

Hi Cathe,

I read somewhere that muscle grows at a faster rate than fat burns. Since I began my regular fitness regime (4-5 days per week) over a year ago, I have lost 2 inches on my chest / hips / thighs.

I think I have been going through a plateau because since then I haven't lost any more inches.

So recently, I stepped up my workouts using heavier weights. Doing GS Legs and other Lower body workouts 1-2x per week to get out of the plateau while doing a mix of upper and cardio on the other 3-4 days. Now, ALL my jeans fit tighter!

Is it possible that the muscle underneath the flab is growing again and causing the temporary increase in size? will it eventually shrink to a tighter more toned muscle?

I'm getting very discouraged because it seems that no matter how hard I work and how clean I eat, I still can't lose the last 2 inches.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks Cathe, you rock!
Becky

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Becky! It is very common for the body the swell while the muscles adapt and repair as a result of a new rotuine. This is temporary and does go away once that initial soreness from the newness calms down (could be anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks).

It is also important for you to continue to eat VERY clean and drink lots of water to help flush the by-products out of your system and aid in cell regeneration.

If at all possible, make one of your cardio workouts a new activity that you usually don't do. That will usually encourage a positive response more quickly. Ease into it though. Start with 20 minutes and work your way up to 45 to 60 minutes of this activity.

Keep your focus and don't get discouraged.

Good Luck!

 

[hkbecky]

Thanks so much Cathe! Your advice really helps to keep me going.