Expert: Kim Farmer - 3/8/2009

Question
Two weeks ago i embarked on my quest to lose weight and tone up.  I am using several different methods to achieve it.  I do cardio 5 days a week, along with flexibility, yoga, core training.  I feel great from the inside, but my weigh ins say my bmi and my weight are climbing at least two to three pounds at weigh ins.  I drink a tremendous amount of water but I wonder if my muscle mass is what the gain is all about. I eat well several small meals a day fruits veggies chicken and fish wheat bread?????  I don't want to get deterred by not seeing results.
any suggestions for me????

Answer
Hi Nina-
Are you including strength training in your routine?  If so, this could contribute to some weight gain.  Also, 2-3 pounds is not a significant amount of weight to worry about, especially if you are weighing in once a week or so.  Many things could contribute to that small amt of weight gain including menstruation, food/water intake, workout time, clothing, etc.  I know that it is frustrating when your weight is not decreasing on the scale, but the numbers you should really be concerned with are body fat, BMI, energy levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, and maybe circumference measurements depending on your goals.

Overall, I think you are doing great as long as you are watching your diet and exercising consistently.  Don't be too concerned with your weight if it is only 2-3 pounds.

Thanks for the question!

Kim Farmer
Mile High Fitness LLC
ACE Personal Trainer
ACE Clinical Exercise Specialist