Expert: Linda Erwin, M.S. - 6/20/2007

Question
How fast can you gain muscle weight? I have been taking spin classes three/four days a week and a boxing class once a week and been doing weight routines everyday before the classes for the past 3 weeks. I have gained 3 pounds, but can't tell if I have gained bad weight or just muscle weight? Is it possible to gain muscle weight that quickly? The weight routine I do in the morning is abs and core, then head off to the spin or boxing classes for one hour. I need to maintain my figure for my wedding next year, so that's why I am worried. Currently I am 5'8" at 143. I need to maintain at 140 or the same inches... ack! :) Thanks for the help!

Answer
Hi Natasha,
I don't think you can gain 3 lbs of muscle weight in 3 weeks but nothing is impossible.  Are you eating more?  If you are going to the gym to do these classes, go ahead and get your body fat tested and get your measurements taken.  If it is muscle weight then you will lose inches and be more toned.  You will see where your body fat percentage is and it it is appropriate.  Remember, women's weight fluctuates daily due to water retention.  Make sure you are drinking a lot of water and watch what you eat.  If you haven't been overeating then your weight gain could be water weight.  Try not to get obsessed with the scale.  Good luck!
Linda