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Can Weightlifting Make One Gain Extra Pounds As Reflected On The Scale?

Posted on Tue, 24 Oct 2017

Question: I started going back to the gym this week.26 yrold female. I started weight lifting and cardio(about 30-45 minutes) plus my regluar walking that I do. I have stuck to a 500-1000 calorie deficit and drink 64-72fl oz of water a day (which I did that before). the scale says that I have gained 5 pounds this week???? Am I doing something wrong?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Need more info

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome

I appreciate your concern

Kindly answer the following to comment further

Since when exactly did you start this regimen
What is your height and weight.
Are you taking any medications/ supplements
Do you have any significant medical or surgical history

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (4 hours later)

I have been back in the gym only for one week. I am 5 foot 2 and now 135lbs when I was only 130 last week. no supplement or anything. Just cardio, weights and water increase.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Explained

Detailed Answer:
Hello again

Your BMI calculated based on your height and weight is 24.7. A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is taken as a healthy range, meaning it's normal.

The 5 pound gain with regimen that you described is unlikely buto can occur if you have gained lean muscle mass.

The caloric intake you described should ideally be devoid of refined carbohydrates and excess salt as both lead to water retention and thus the higher reading.

I would advise you to continue the roitine you described. If it's lean muscle mass then no readjustment is necessary.

Keep an eye on the waistline to keep it below 35. That too is an indicator whethere you are gaining muscle or simply retaining water and fat.

wishing you best of health

Thanks

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar