Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Gaining weight..Huh?
I think I'm the only person on the planet that can GAIN weight while training for a Half Marathon. What's up with THAT? I actually know the answer but it is still annoying. There are several explanations : 1) I'm building muscle and muscle weighs more than fat. But my pants don't fit! That is because the muscle is building UNDER the fat already there thus making me 'thicker'. 2)Another explanation is that my body is learning to store carbohydrates as fuel (glycogen) for my long runs. Those glycogen stores are important to completing my long runs and marathon without "hitting the wall". I am also seeing a couple extra pounds because my body also requires additional water to break down and store the glycogen, adding extra weight. 3) I could also be consuming way more calories than I thought. Although I need to refuel to recharge an replenish my body I could be consuming WAY more thinking I CAN. Sigh....Regardless I'm not liking this
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2 comments:
This is very very common. Our hunger increases with training and it's hard to balance the hunger with actual caloric requirements.
If you are concerned, I strongly suggest journaling your food and pay attention to macronutrients.
Also, strength training - important to maintain muscle mass throughout training and keep body from going into starvation mode...
Interesting story from trainer/author Rachel Cosgrove. Google her - story is very interesting.
Don't be discouraged though... you are doing amazing.
It is awesome how dedicated you have been to training for your first half marathon. The longest race I have ever run is a 10k and the longest run I have ever completed is only 8 miles...I get so bored after an hour of running! Keep going, you are doing great!
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