[velichay]

The level of working out you're doing is certainly causing you muscle mass gain. That will forestall your net losses for a while, but you will still be losing fat; so the trade-off is certainly worth it. Eventually you'll see more net losses on the scales.

Thanks, Teuthis. So you think eventually my fat loss will register on the scales too? Why is this? Is it because eventually I will simply stop gaining muscle (ie, I will reach my natural muscle mass total)?

Marissa.

[Fausqueuego]

The factors of age, weight, and overall fitness need to be considered in your question. I think it's best left to someone with specific experience, such as your trainer, to help you decide. If you attempt to do too much, over time you might not be able to keep up the pace or dedicate the time to it. I think a balance is best. Do something you know you can sustain over time.

The level of working out you're doing is certainly causing you muscle mass gain. That will forestall your net losses for a while, but you will still be losing fat; so the trade-off is certainly worth it. Eventually you'll see more net losses on the scales.

Good Luck!

[ropinirole]

I think that your muscle gain will level off, or cease, based on the level of exercise you're doing, while the fat continues to burn off. At some point that translates into net loss again. I've seen some of that in the past month; finally. I hope you do too, soon.

I've been trying to do aerobic style exercise, such as walking, to keep my muscle gain to a minimum. Still I've gained muscle. I would like to get back to some light weights soon, but I want to stay in a net loss mode for the time being.

Good Luck!

[mikeydesignzinc]

Hi,

I currently do 45 minutes cardio and 30 minutes weights 4 times a week. I've been doing this routine since I started Atkins in July 2003. My strength and endurance have doubled (ie I've doubled my cardio duration and level, and doubled most of the weights) and feel terrific. During cardio I aim for 80%+ max heart rate (whenever heart rate goes down I increase the cardio level).

But I want to do more: more cardio and more weights because I get such a buzz out of it. Is it dangerous to increase cardio at 80% heart max to 60 minutes a session and weights up to 45 minutes a session (I do both on same day)? Which is best: increase duration, increase intensity, or increase both?

I will ask my gym trainer, but would like YOUR advice and experiences too.

BTW, since increasing the intensity of my workouts my weight loss has dramatically slowed, but I've still dropped a dress size and am now just one size from my goal dress size, so please don't get disheartened all you gym-going stallers!

Thank you,
Marissa.