Expert: Linda Erwin, M.S. - 12/17/2005

Question
I have joined the gym. I am running a lot and using the versa climber. My legs feel toned but also feel rather tight in my jeans. I don't want to be building bulk. How should I exercise to help mantain weight loss, as I am also gaining weight? I thought high impact workouts were for weight loss. I do swim and do the body pump classes. I eat healthily but I find working out builds up an appetite. Is it also right to wait an hour after exercising to then have a meal? How will that affect my metabolism? Please advuse me.
Many thanks
Katrina

Answer
Hi Katrina,
It sounds like you are doing everything right.  When you workout like you do you will build muscle and burn fat.  You will become leaner and might even weigh a few lbs more if you aren't on a diet and just trying to maintain.  If your jean pant legs are tight they will still look great!  If you are running, your legs should not bulk up.  The versa climber might be the culprit if you are adding resistance and height.  Women really don't bulk up easily but you may see a change in the shape of your legs.  Also, take a day off every week.  I'm not sure how much you are doing but how about cutting down the aerobics to 4-5 times per week and only weights 2 times per week.  Don't do any quad/hamstring weight workouts or do tons of squats.  That will definitely have an impact on your thighs.  Pilates is good for lengthening and strengthening so try that.

The good news is that muscle mass burns more calories at rest so you are burning more calories all day.  You should eat something with carbs within 20 minutes after you workout.  That replaces the glycogen that you lose when you are working out hard.  A piece of fruit is always good.  You can eat anytime you are ready after you workout and that won't affect you negatively at all.

Enjoy your workouts, continue to eat healthy, drink water, be happy and don't obsess over your body.  Have your goal to be healthy, fit, and happy!!!

Merry X-mas and good luck to you,
Linda