Why the Scale Isn't Moving Despite Weight Loss & Increased Running

Question
Hi,

I read your answer to this already but more specifically, I am losing inches, but the scale won't budge.

As well, when running 2-3 times a week I would lose 2 lbs. a week, but now running 5 times a week and im not losing a pound!

Am i gaining leg muscle in some weird way?

Thanks.  

Answer
Hello John,

The way you are gaining muscle doesn't seem weird. The matter is, muscles are heavier, inch for inch, than fat.

Another aspect is the efficiency of aerobic-type of exercises versus strength training. The later trend supports doing weights. So you can expect that your increased muscle mass eventually will increase your metabolism and thus fat burning.

If however you prefer less prominent, dryer muscles, keep running and maybe consider interval training.

Hope it helps,

Tanya Zilberter, PhD