Weekly Weigh-in and Measurements

Weigh-in

Last week was my first week of serious iron time in five years.  Because I was hitting the weights (mind you, not doing heavy for limited reps, but doing lighter weights for 8-15 reps), I knew that the chances of "losing" weight was slim.  Muscle is 2.2 times heavier than fat, and I definitely brought back some atrophied muscles since last week.  With just doing cardio in the pool, I was averaging about 5 pounds lost per week, but some of that was muscle mass, and I don't want to lose what I've built in the past.  Going consistently to the weight room is the answer.  

Stepping on the scales, I weighed .7 of a pound heavier than last week.

Most people would freak out about this, but let me explain.  You build muscle to burn fat.  Simple enough.  Adding muscle increases your metabolism, and then you become a fat-burning machine.  I know this to be true because I felt it while working with a sport's nutritionist when I was doing Strongman.  It does take a few weeks to start cranking, so rely upon measurements rather than the scale during that time, and you'll see the proof.

Measurements

So, I was measured on Saturday, so these results do not constitute results for a full week.  That's the cool thing.  Remember, I gained weight.  So how did I change over four days?

Waist:  LOST 1"

Thigh:  LOST 1"

Chest:  stayed the same

Arms:  GAINED .5"

Neck:  GAINED .5"

I'm excited about the waist and thigh loss.  That means I'm burning fat even after gaining weight!  And the gains in my arms and neck?  Awesome!  That's exactly what I want.  My arms used to measure 21.75", and they were tight.  Five years of neglect, they dwindled to 18".  One workout on biceps and one workout on triceps added a half an inch.  You see, the original fibers are still there waiting to be awoken from a long winter's nap!  I'll get the arms back to size, that's for sure.  

Waiting

I'm in the middle of the second week of this routine, and it's been a slugfest.  I've not felt this sore since I was a teenager starting to lift for the first time.  I think it's worse this go around, as a matter of fact.  I can't wait for that to go away.

I'm also waiting for the "energized" workout.  That's the holy grail.  You feel great when you go in, you blast away your work, and you feel "high" when you leave.  

Last week, I had NO energy regardless of how I adjusted my diet  or what supplements I took.  This week's been a little better, but I'm still dragging more than I ever remember.  I guess it takes time to recover from surgery and to rectify the sedentary lifestyle I'd been living.  I know I'll get there, but it just takes time.  I'm not the most patient person, though.  I want to feel good NOW!  But since I'm doing everything right aside from an adjustment here or there, I'm confident those days are closer.

See you next Wednesday with new results!