I have lost 52 lbs total since I began my lifestyle change last July. I lost almost all of that weight with no excercise, and by just changing my eating habits. I told myself that when I reached the 50 lb mark I would begin to incorprate exercise into my plan as well. Starting Jan 1st I begin exercing 3 times per week (mostly cardio) and I have felt great. The problem is I am now going back and fourth between 207 and 209. I seem to have stalled. I have read threads that talk about lifting weights causing water retention and a little weight gain. Could that be true with cardio, or is there something else stopping me from loosing?? I was wondering if anyone else has experienced this...

When you exercise you will build muscle. Muscle is more dense than fat and takes up less space. You may want to rely on measurements instead of the scale to gauge your progress for the next few months.

You arent going to gain muscle very fast. Water can be significant if you are new to exercise. The most common cause is from exercisers letting the diet slip "just a little"

Yeah, make sure you're not "treating" yourself with a little extra food just cause you worked out. I'm guilty of that---alot!!

And congrats on your weightloss-woohoo! Keep up the good work. And keep exercising!

Your muscles are probably retaining some water. Are you sore after your workouts? This fluid retention can cause a TEMPORARY gain on the scale, so don't worry too much. Just make sure you're eating healthy and keep in mind all the benefits of exercise and the wonderful things you're doing for your body!! Keep it up!

I know that for me personally any time I change my workout routine in a significant way my weight loss tends to stall for a short time. It really used to bother me, but now I know to expect it. It's like my body needs some time to adjust to the new things I am requiring it to do. As long as you haven't changed your eating habits, I think you will see the scale start to move again soon.

Thanks to everyone that replied!! I have been staying on plan so I know it isn't a slip up, but I am just going to keep doing what I am doing and be patient. I went from no exercise to 3-4 times a week so I am sure my body is a little shocked. Thanks for all the encouragement! I love you guys!!