Expert: Kim Farmer - 5/7/2008

Question
I am doing a 45 minute spin class 3 times a week and 45 minutes on the elliptical trainer 2 days a week.  When I started this (9 months ago) I initially lost 10 lbs., but I have recently gained about 5 back.  I've made no changes and don't understand the weight gain.  I am not heavy, so it's not a big deal.  I just wonder if there's some other combo of exercise that I should be doing.  I love the spin class, but is that the best thing for me.  I'm 5 ft 4 1/2 in tall, 122 weight, and 56 years old.

Answer
Wow, I am impressed with the amount of your activity and the amount of energy that you have!  You say that you have not made any changes, does that include the foods that you are eating?  It could be possible that your body needs a change of pace, especially if your workouts are no longer as challenging as they once were.  The spin class is great IF you are making it intense enough.  It really is about how many calories you are burning and how many you are taking in.  Do you have an idea of whether or not you are having a caloric deficit in your daily diet?  In other words if you are burning more calories than you are eating then you will lose weight.  If the opposite is true then you will gain weight.

You might also try substituting one or two days of your spin class with another activity like wogging (walking/jogging) on the treadmill or outdoors in intervals of high and low.  This might give your body the boost it needs.  Don't forget to do strength training since it will help keep your metabolism higher helping you burn more calories.  Try to do strength training a couple of days a week, it is ok to do it on the same days that you do cardio.

I hope this helps, please let me know if you have further questions.

Thank you.
Kim