What is the scientific explanation for beginning weightlifters’ ability to gain muscle and lose fat simultaneously?
3 min read
Asked by: Mehmet Bucknell
Is it scientifically possible to lose fat and gain muscle at the same time?
Takeaway. If you can sustain a lifting program and eat a caloric deficit, your body will be able to pull from its fat stores to both fuel itself and potentially build muscle mass. Prioritizing foods rich in protein is a key component to both losing body fat and building muscle at the same time.
What is the science behind gaining muscle?
In essence, a biological effort to repair or replace damaged muscle fibers begins with the satellite cells fusing together and to the muscles fibers, often leading to increases in muscle fiber cross-sectional area or hypertrophy. The satellite cells have only one nucleus and can replicate by dividing.
How do I build muscle and lose fat?
9 strategies for gaining muscle while losing weight:
- Keep your caloric deficit small.
- Be patient.
- Eat 25-plus grams of protein four times per day.
- Consider trying intermittent fasting.
- Do compound strength exercises at least three times per week.
- Use cardio for recovery.
- Adjust your exercise program’s structure.
How do muscles get stronger without getting bigger?
Think of staying in the rep-range of under a 6-rep max in order to primarily use the ATP-PC energy system that recruits those big muscle fibers and fatigues quickly. Completing high-intensity movements with lower volume allows the muscles to adapt without growing significantly in size.
Why do I have strength but no size?
One possible reason your muscle is not growing could be that your training is more geared toward improving your strength vs hypertrophy (i.e. muscle growth). You want to fully activate your whole muscle to maximize growth. The last 5 or so reps performed in a set is where this happens.
Can you be strong without looking strong?
Size fortunately there are some factors. Some variables that influence strength without having a big impact on size and that's what we're going to focus on here.
Why am I getting stronger but not losing weight?
If you’re building muscle but not losing weight, then your body is undergoing a process commonly known as body recomposition. This is a coveted state that is ideal for maintaining fat loss. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength training can help you reduce your body fat while increasing your lean muscle.
Do you lose fat or muscle first?
Your muscles first burn through stored glycogen for energy. “After about 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise, your body starts burning mainly fat,” says Dr. Burguera. (If you’re exercising moderately, this takes about an hour.)
Why am I gaining fat while lifting weights?
A new exercise regimen puts stress on your muscle fibers. This causes small micro tears, also known as micro trauma, and some inflammation. Those two conditions in your muscle fibers are the reason you may gain some weight.
