Couch to 5k weight gain - help!

[Becboc2003]

I have started the couch to 5k programme and am currently on week 5 - can’t believe I actually managed to run 8 whole mins! Anyway, my question is has anyone at the beginning of this together with healthy actually gained weight? I have been trying really hard with healthy eating and exercise (even been to a FitCamp) to be shocked at a weight gain today. The scales won’t seem to budge! It is really becoming disheartening and feel like giving up. Any advice ?

[Kish247 Graduate]

I'm not sure exactly what you're doing in terms of exercise when you aren't doing the C25K but unfortunately the C25K alone isn't enough exercise to lose weight I don't think.

Don't forget though, you're building muscle and I wish I had taken body measurements when I started as I certainly hold my weight differently now and can feel that thighs are more toned. Also, if you are hydrating loads like you should be, water weighs a lot.

Check yourself out in the mirror more

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Apart from forgetting about the scales and reducing your calorie intake there is not a lot else to do.

This FAQ post may help healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[nowster Graduate]

Fat turns into muscle with exercise. Muscle is more dense than fat, so takes up less space. So rather than losing weight you may have shifted the mass around. The best measure for that change is not the scales but a tape measure.

If your clothes feel a little looser than they did a few weeks ago, that's a sign of this happening. For example, I'm now using a notch on my trousers belt that had never seen use before. Another place it might be seen is on your face -- this is where other people notice it most, with comments of "You're looking well!"

[Jell6 Graduate]

Personally I ditched the scales!.

I still wear the same clothes that I did at the start, eventually everything settles.

Don't make the mistake of eating more because you are running through.

A 30 minute run is only going to burn off around 250-300 calories.

Give it time. You'll see the benefits.

[Lookslikejames Graduate]

I felt the exact same way up until recently, as I was getting frustrated that I hadn't lost any weight. But as others have said above, I am developing more muscle in my quads, calves and glutes, and more core feels stronger. I may weigh the exact same as when I started, but I am stronger, fitter and above all, mentally much more healthy.

I know its hard, but try to forget the weight aspect, and get rid of the "sorry step" as my friend calls it. Focus on the amazing positives, you're eating better, you're at week 5 of C25K and I bet you look a lot healthier and fitter than you even realise.

Keep up the great work!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Have you read the guide to the plan which is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...