Hi Jordan,
On Jan 1, 2022, I was 6-0, 215. Since then, I’ve not missed a workout (5 day split, two exercises per day (e.g., deadlift & bench; squat & bb row) ending with either 5 min HIIT or 10 min ride on Echo Bike). I’ve tracked all my foods to the tune of 2,243 calories, and 188 g protein per day. Although these are averages, my days are consistent (never miss by +/- 300 calories or 15 g protein). Yet, I’ve managed to gain 2 pounds, and, based on what I can tell, I’ve gotten stronger as well. Per the NIH calculator, even using the sedentary numbers, my maintenance calories are 2,700. I’m at a loss for how I’ve managed to gain weight. Is this some weird short-term fluctuation? Am I not eating enough and my body is doing some weird preservation? Am I sensitive to certain foods? Am I actually a sloth? Thanks
KFly,
Nice job on the workouts. That should not be overlooked!
Sounds like you may be retaining some water, which is not unusual when changing diet and/or exercise. I’d be tracking your waist circumference along the way just to be sure, but I’d put my money on that OR eating significantly more Calories than you’re aiming for. Assuming the former, I’d keep doing what you’re doing and add a 35g fiber minimum per day from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and/or legumes.
For your questions:
- If you eat less, you’ll lose more. This is why individuals who have food insecurity and starve end up being very, very skinny.
- It is unlikely you move significantly less than the average sedentary person, especially given your exercise regimen. That said, your physical activity levels likely didn’t do much to change your total daily energy expenditure.
-Jordan
Thanks. I’ll keep at it. Was just a bit dismayed. I’ll circle back at the end of one month and see where things are at. Appreciate you guys.