how long for metabolism to increase?
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how long for metabolism to increase?
| Tue, 05-31-2005 - 3:52pm |
Hi all, I'm new here but not new to working out. I've been on a new "program" for the last 3 weeks (just beginning my 4th week of it yesterday). My trainer has designed this program to up my metabolism. How long does it typically take for your metabolism to get kicked in? I'm eating 3 meals, 2 snacks, working out hard 5 days/wk with both cardio and weights. I've lost maybe 3.5-4 pounds but I thought I'd be losing more quickly. I weigh around 130 and would like to be around 122-125 (I'm only 5'3"). So I don't have a lot to lose, maybe that's why it's coming off slowly? Or maybe I'm gaining muscle and burning fat but the scale isn't moving much??
Any suggestions/advice is appreciated!

Hey Katie!!
Thanks Miranda! Good info and good points. I wish my skinny jeans were fitting more losely. I think that's why I'm not more encouraged. I don't care so much about a number on the scale--I can tell by the way my clothes are fitting. I had hoped by now that my clothes would feel significantly looser. At least they're not feeling tighter! :-)
Katie
Welcome to the board Katie! Congrats on starting up your exercise program- as Miranda has posted, you're right on target; losing at a steady pace. The most successful way! Your metabolism has probably changed, check out your pulse-- carefully take note of how you are feeling throughout your workouts. I bet you're finding them easier than when you first started working out.
Keep it up, and looking forward to posting with you!
*** Moderation Is Key ***
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Thanks for the support and words of encouragement! As of today, I've lost 4.5 lbs since May 9. That seems so lame when I type it, but I'm still encouraged. And you're right--some parts of my workout have gotten easier and I am finding it a little easier to reach my target heart rate than I did when I first started.
Speaking of THR, is this the formula you all use?
220-age, then take 85% of that for the max?
Katie
*** Moderation Is Key ***
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Okay, now this time I'm not going to provide a formula, but some info straight from the American Heart Association:
Target Heart Rates
AHA Recommendation
Health professionals know the importance of proper pacing during exercise. To receive the benefits of physical activity, it's important not to tire too quickly. Pacing yourself is especially important if you've been inactive.
Target heart rates let you measure your initial fitness level and monitor your progress in a fitness program. This approach requires measuring your pulse periodically as you exercise and staying within 50 to 75 percent of your maximum heart rate. This range is called your target heart rate.
What is an alternative to target heart rates?
Some people can't measure their pulse or don't want to take their pulse when exercising. If this is true for you, try using a "conversational pace" to monitor your efforts during moderate activities like walking. If you can talk and walk at the same time, you aren't working too hard. If you can sing and maintain your level of effort, you're probably not working hard enough. If you get out of breath quickly, you're probably working too hard -- especially if you have to stop and catch your breath.
When should I use the target heart rate?
If you participate in more-vigorous activities like brisk walking and jogging, the "conversational pace" approach may not work. Then try using the target heart rate. It works for many people, and it's a good way for health professionals to monitor your progress.
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