I have a friend that told me during Atkins I should not workout because it will make me gain weight....is this true??

NO WAY!!!! Atkins advocates working out - both cardio and strength training (something I am trying to figure out how to fit in myself). The strength training might keep you from losing weight faster (as it will build muscle which is more dense), but you will lose inches and look better. Exercise is very important.... and I know I need to figure out a routine that will work for me (and do it soon!).

Anyway, I'm sure others could have said this better. Have you checked out the exercise forum? Or, do a search on exercise, and you will be able to see a more elequent (sp?) explanation.

Good luck to you!

Debby

206.5/156/140?130?
CAD/CALP 1/12-10/9/03
Atkins since 10/10/03

Dr. Atkins described exercise as "non-negotiable". Your friend may have picked up on the idea that for some people, the very low carb levels of the initial induction phase make it difficult to work out. It's quite common to feel some tiredness and lack of energy during induction, so people need to pay attention to their bodies and adjust accordingly. For some, it's best to hold off on exercise for a couple weeks until the metabolic changes indcution produces are established.

Your friend may also be reacting to the idea that muscle weighs more than fat. When we work out vigorously while eating the adequate protein provided by the Atkins plan, we develop lean muscle mass. Therefore the numbers on the scale may not drop quite as fast. As Debby said, lean muscle mass weighs more than fat, but it takes up less space and it increases our basal metabolism, so we get slimmer and trimmer and smaller, whether the scale shows a loss or not. And frankly, who cares what the scale says if you're feeling strong and fit and are the size you want to be?

In any event, your friend is misinformed. The Atkins plan REQUIRES exercise - it's "non-negotiable"!

Sky
Atkins since 8/02
186/144/under 150