Weight training while trying to lose weight

[seadog83]

I've read that it is more or less impossible to increase muscle while decreasing fat, and for the most part that makes sense, however I'm just curious what will happen to my muscles when I weight train after doing cardio while on a calorie restricted diet?

It makes sense that muscle mass wont increase since I'm at a calorie deficit, and accordingly I'm missing out on the higher metabolism more muscle mass brings. That said I'd like to think theres more of a gain than the calories burnt while actively lifting.

On a similar note, once you do 20 minutes cardio they say your metabolim increases for a couple hours after. Aside from the calories directly burnt, is there any benefit gained by doing 30 mins of cardio instead of 20?

 

[Steve]

You are splitting hairs and I'm not too certain if I'm clear on everything you're asking.

I've read that it is more or less impossible to increase muscle while decreasing fat, and for the most part that makes sense

For starters, very fat people and absolute novices to strength training can experience concurrent fat loss and muscle gain. Even I experience at times after a long break.

however I'm just curious what will happen to my muscles when I weight train after doing cardio while on a calorie restricted diet?

I'm not sure what you mean. Anytime you lift weights it has the same impact locally to the muscle, no matter if it's after you run or if you're dieting or not.

It makes sense that muscle mass wont increase since I'm at a calorie deficit, and accordingly I'm missing out on the higher metabolism more muscle mass brings.

The added metabolism from more muscle is really overblown in most cases.

That said I'd like to think theres more of a gain than the calories burnt while actively lifting.

Not sure what you're saying?

On a similar note, once you do 20 minutes cardio they say your metabolim increases for a couple hours after. Aside from the calories directly burnt, is there any benefit gained by doing 30 mins of cardio instead of 20?

The increase in metabolism post steady state, moderate intensity cardio isn't great at all, it doesn't matter if you're talking about 20 or 30 minutes.

 

[MysticRealm]

I don't know the scientific answer or anything for this but.
During the last month I have been working out(weights and cardio) and eatin right.
I lost 10 pounds and 9 inches overall. But I gained an inch in my calf which I think can only be attributed to muscle. (I am sure there is more muscles nearly every where but their is more fat over other areas so it doesn't show)

 

[Steve]

Right, like I said, novices can experience concurrent recomposition.

 

[maleficent]

:raises hand:
it was pointed out to me that I have very cool looking muscles in my arms...

so yeah it's possible - I'm not sure if i'm one of the very fat(I am) or very novice (I am) -but i'll go with novice cuz it sounds better