Why you're gaining muscle but not losing fat - 6 common mistakes and how to correct them
Women's Health • • health
Key Points:
- Fat loss and weight loss are not the same; weight loss can include muscle, water, and bone mass reductions, so the scale may not reflect true body composition changes.
- Increased cardio can raise appetite, potentially offsetting fat loss efforts, so balancing cardio with strength training and monitoring hunger is important.
- Progressive overload in training is essential to continue building muscle, which indirectly supports fat loss by increasing energy expenditure during recovery.
- Non-exercise activities (NEAT) like walking and household chores significantly contribute to daily energy use and can aid fat loss when increased alongside formal workouts.
- Consistency over time, proper sleep, balanced macronutrients (especially adequate protein intake), and realistic expectations are key factors for sustainable fat loss and muscle gain.
