Is exercise making me gain weight?
 

I read the above sticky on this topic, but this just doesn't fit.

I have measured every calorie, worked-out 6 days a week for 1-2 hours (sometimes more), even walked or biked leisurely on rest days, and, though I was down 10 the first 4 weeks, I am now stagnant. Then, this morning, after a 22.5 mile bike ride yesterday (a leisurely one really as we were slowed by our kids and took almost 3 hours to do it), I am UP 6 lbs. I did not eat over my calories yesterday. I do not eat processed foods. I am a vegetarian and eat clean. Not a lot of salt.

Now, I know this isn't fat gain. But, is it really possible to gain 6lbs. in water from a big work-out? It is so hard to stay focussed when this happens.

Yes it is possible to gain water weight and it is impossible to gain 6 lbs of fat overnight.

Basically, your muscles need water to heal so they will retain water as part of the healing process.

This is totally possible. Dont lose heart. It has happened to me also and I almost gave up. Now when I have a big workout I dont weigh myself the next day at all. I know in my heart I will be holding water so why make myself feel bad about it. Drink lots of water today and know this is just TEMPORARY.

Great job on your workout!!

Well, as it turns out, the batteries on my scale were dying. I replaced them today and the weight has returned to normal. It did teach me not to put so much *weight* on the numbers on the scale.

Oh, I'm glad your scale was broken! LOL!

I have learned that strenuous exercise rarely ever shows itself on the scale. That's really frustrating unless you can wrap your brain around the fact that weight loss is not linear and that it seems to be 80% diet and only 20% exercise. Exercise tones me amazingly. I can't believe how toned I am with not a whole lot to show on the scale. I have been known to drop a full dress size without seeing any movement on the scale. It took me a long, long, long time to figure that out.

Further, I have discovered that I lose two weeks out of every month and I gain/stall two weeks out of every month. It doesn't matter what I do. Last week was part of my stall and I did three days of 20+ mile bike rides, a full day at an amusement park with fewer than usual calories and way more than usual water, three intense days of spin cycle class and strength training. It didn't matter...I stalled anyway. Then today the scale finally moved again and I know I'm probably in a losing pattern now.

Try to focus on the other benefits of exercise. Toning, blood pressure, increased energy and fun! :D