weight gain

[sugar20]

Hello...
2 years ago, I used to workout a lot for some reason (I was in college - still am - and had lots of free time), but I didn't know much about working out. So 4 times a week, I'd:
- do a 20 min step class, then
- go to the gym to do weights for 15 mins, then
- run for 15 mins
I didn't even eat that well and I was about 8 lbs lighter then I am now.

Now I workout 3-4 times a week:
- cardio/light toning, hour-long class 2x/week
- run 25 mins 1x/week
- one of your step videos on the weekend.
I'm also starting to do the MIS/PS tapes again. I eat about the same but drink a bit more beer. Why am I 8 lbs heavier? Is my metablism slowing already (I'm 21) or do I need to switch my workout? I also am getting more cellulite. Before I could only see it in 'odd' seated positions, now I see it standing. Any advice?? THANKS!

 

[Jane37]

this may be worthless information but...

I don't know if this will help you or not, but i thought I'd at least try! First of all, last fall I was dating a guy who drinks every night...needless to say, by beer consumption went up! I gained 6 pounds in the 8 months that we dated. (I know it's hard to pass up, being 21 when it's legal for you now and all!) Also, your body isn't finished developing at 18 or 19, and you can get away with a lot more bad habits then than you can in your 20's. I am still trying to convince myself that I will never look like I did when I was 18, even though I desperately want to. 8 pounds is not a lot. It's one clothing size, maybe not even that if you're tall. As long as you're working out regularly and eating healthy, maybe you're at your natural weight. I know it's easy to say that to someone else and hard to apply to yourself! Anyway, good luck.
Jane

 

[thundercat]

A food diary can make the difference!

Beer will put extra weight on. I know from experience. Try to keep track of your daily intake of calories, protein and fat.

You should be consuming around 2000 calories, at least half as many grams of protein as pounds you weigh; for example: you weigh 120 lbs. you should consume no less than 60 grams of lean protein divided into small servings (no more than 20 grams at a time)throughout the day and you shouldn't consume more than about 40 grams of fat and avoid heat pressed oils and hydrogenated fats.

It takes a bit of effort to keep track of everything you put in your mouth, but it works!

 

[bkloots]

Ditto Thundercat

Keep that diary and you'll figure it out. "A bit more beer" can really add up.

It's great that you're learning now what healthy nutrition means. Believe me, after a lifetime of yo-yo gains and losses, I wish I'd started earlier. The on-and-off dieting routine is for the birds! Consistent exercise and healthy eating (whatever you determine is best for you) will keep your body at its optimum weight and shape. Taking off fat gets more difficult as you get older, so keeping it off now will pay off for all the years ahead. Educate yourself.

Best wishes!

 

[Amy Steppe]

I doubt that your age has anything to do with your metabolism. I am certainly no expert. I have, however, at the "tender age of 45" found that I eat less, exercise more, and still gain weight