Exercising and still Gaining Weight?

++  Sometimes, people are frustrated when they start working out at a gym because they want to lose weight - and then they don't lose. 

There are several factors that contribute to this:

• In a few cases, the gain in muscle outweighs the loss in fat.  This is a slow process, however.  You can tell whether it applies to you by noticing any changes in how your clothing fits.
• It is tempting to rationalize overeating.  You say to yourself, "Of course, I'm more hungry.  I'm working out more.  I can eat more now."  Unfortunately, an hour at the gym does not burn enough calories to offset an extra serving of dessert!
• Modern marketting tells you that you need energy bars, energy drinks, rehydration drinks, etc., to get the energy for the workout.  Again, an hour or two at the gym does not burn enough calories for this.  Besides, if you're going to the gym to lose weight, the idea is to get the energy from your fat stores.  All you need is water after a normal workout.  After a longer, more intense workout, add a few ounces of chocolate milk, or similar product high in protein, and fluid, and modest in carbs.  If you need more than that, chances are that you are working with a team 'trainer' and already know how much more you need.

Maybe, it will help you to adopt the attitude that weight loss is a nice side-effect of working out.  After all, you do get other benefits from being physically fit:  stronger bones and muscles; more flexibility; lower risk of diabetes, heart disease, and some forms of cancer; even a better mood. 

Are you ready to hit the gym??  Good luck - and have fun.