[Domina]

Here's a perhaps strange question for you. Can running cause weight gain? I know it sounds crazy, as most runners I know lose weight. I began running about a year ago, but now run 2 miles 3 days a week. I walk the other days. I have put on about 7 pounds and can't get them off again. I used to be able to stay OP for a few days and knock off some pounds, but it's not happening this time.

Some thoughts:
--I'm menopausal, so I think my whole body is changing (52 years old)
--I may be doing mind tricks and think I can eat more if I'm running
--I'm more muscular, but that shouldn't matter, should it? A pound of muscle equals a pound of fat, i.e. it's the same weight.

Anyone, especially Mrs. Jim, have any ideas?

[Kelly_S]

yes a pound of muslce and a pound of fat weight the same however the muscle will take up less space.

Menopause can cause the weight to take longer to come back off.

If you are running daily you may need to eat more but because of hormonal changes you may need to watch more what you are spending those calories/points on.

Are you getting smaller? --- usually what happens is runners get smaller but may maintain their weight or even gain some because the muscle is more dense thus takes up less space -- make sense?

[Domina]

Kelly, Hmmm some things to ponder. My clothes really don't fit any tighter. I run every other day because I tried running every day and it was too hard on my body.

[mandalinn82]

Another thought - I just read (I could probably find the link somewhere) that when you first start a new exercise program, you can retain extra water for up to 3 weeks. I don't know why that is, but this ABSOLUTELY happened to me...exercising and eating right, no weight loss for 2 weeks, then lost 7 pounds in a week doing exactly the same thing. So if this is new to you, give it some time for your body to adjust to the new routine.

[Domina]

Mandalinn82, thanks, that was interesting, too.