Running and Weight Loss

by Leah
(New Zealand)

I have been on a diet for 4 weeks and been hard out running and I have put on weight. It sucks and I want to give up, is there any reason for why I am gaining?

Answer by Dominique:


Hi Leah,
Thanks for your question about running and weight loss.

I understand it can be very frustrating when you are working hard towards a goal and you see the results not going anywhere.

The reasons why you are gaining weight are possibly one of the following:

1) Even though you are running and dieting you are still taking more calories in than you burn.

2) Maybe your diet is very strict, so strict that your body has gone into a state of emergency and holds on to the energy with all its might.

3) Your body may be removing fat by muscle. When you run and diet, your fat stores will diminish. Your running will help you grow muscles. Muscles are heavier than fat, so you may find yourself increasing in weight.

So, it's not to say that your running and dieting is not working, it may just take some time before you see the results. One thing is certain: if you stop now, you will not be able to get any improvements.

In the end, if you keep your running going and steadily increase your distances and time spent running and combine this with a healthy diet, then there is no other way than to a healhier, happier, thinner Leah.

Keep it up and even if you do not get to the weight you want, just keep in mind that your healthy diet and your regular exercise provide benefits way beyond losing some weight.

Hope this helps.
Kind regards,
Dominique



Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Running for Weight Loss - Your Questions.


  ☕ Buy Dom a Coffee

What's New?

  1. Personalized Running Coaching - BRT | Run Smarter, Race Better

    Get a personalized running program built around your current fitness, goals, and schedule - not a generic app template. Choose from BRT Silver, Gold, or Platinum coaching with Dom, accredited running…

    Read more

  2. Sample 4-Day Marathon Training Week: Base to Taper

    A full 4-day-a-week marathon training schedule, phase by phase - base, build, peak, and taper - with named workouts and weekly mileage.

    Read more

  3. Marathon Taper for a 10-12 Week Training Cycle

    How to taper correctly on a compressed 10-12 week marathon plan - the right taper length, why standard advice doesn't fit, and the week-by-week structure.

    Read more


More New Posts →