General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Weight gain after long run? Rss Feed  
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2007-01-17 12:35 PM

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Subject: Weight gain after long run?
For the past 2 weeks, I have been watching my calories. On Thursday I was down 2 pounds (I was really pumped, thinking all of this calorie counting is working) and by Monday I had gained 5 pounds! I went out for my 10 mile run on Sunday, could my long run have something to do with it? Maybe I was retaining water from the longer distance? I have not gotten back on the scale for fear that I will still be up 5 pounds and then I'll get discouraged. I'm trying to drop about 10-12 pounds, any thoughts on what's going on?

Abbie


2007-01-17 2:14 PM
in reply to: #657893

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Subject: RE: Weight gain after long run?
I'm not a nutritionist, but I predent to be one on BT.

Usually after long runs you should be lighter - lost pounds in water weight. Did you weigh yourself before and after (without clothes and shoes?)

Are you drinking lots during your long run? Water is heavy.

What about eating during the run. Gels and bars have tons of calories - but they wouldn't make an immediate difference.

Then there is also muscle. Even though running is mostly aerobic, it is still weight bearing which means you are building muscles in your legs, back and even your arms.

Muscles weigh more than fat. I've always found that when I lift weights my own weight goes up before it goes down.

The good thing about muscle is that it burns energy just to have and use it, so it is better to have more muscle if you are trying to maintain a weight loss program.

The last option is to check your scale. I've had someone mess with mine and it made a several pound difference. Depending on the quality of the device how you stand on it, and if it is level on the floor can make a difference.

I hope this helps.

Don't lose confidence. All will be good.
2007-01-17 2:52 PM
in reply to: #657893

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molto veloce mama
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Subject: RE: Weight gain after long run?
swollen muscles. don't worry about it. i get the same thing after long runs, and sometimes after races too.
2007-01-17 7:54 PM
in reply to: #657893

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Subject: RE: Weight gain after long run?
I absolutely weigh more after long workouts and races. Don't get frustrated! Just keep an eye on your weekly trends and you may find that you always weigh the least on Tuesdays (after long weekend workouts but after the body has returned to normal) or whatever. Keep it up!
2007-01-18 10:39 AM
in reply to: #657893

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Subject: RE: Weight gain after long run?
Thanks for your helpful words everyone. The scale was back down those 5 pounds today which is good, but of course I'd like to be down another pound. I'll stick with it.
Abbie
2007-01-19 6:29 PM
in reply to: #657893

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Subject: RE: Weight gain after long run?
That is good to hear.  Try not to worry so much about weight gain and loss over a few days or a week.  It is the progress over a number of weeks that is important.   I can gain and lose 5+ pounds over a week easily.  Especially if I measure weight at different time of day.   Just keep a log on BT of your daily or weekly weight and use the graphs to see your overall trend.   Good luck. 


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General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Weight gain after long run? Rss Feed