Q: Why does it seem that when I first begin an exercise program, I don't lose weight right away? I haven't changed my diet, so it can't be added calories. - H.H., Parma, OH

A:This is a great question, and one that I'm frequently asked. It is true that muscle weighs more than fat, which may be why the scale does not reflect an immediate weight loss change. In fact, often people may weigh more in the early stages of their exercise program than they did before they started their program. This weight gain is typically due to an increase (or hypertrophy) of the muscles.

As you continue to exercise on a regular basis, your body makes several physiological adaptations. One of these is the adaptation to a more effective use of food sources, especially fats and carbohydrates, as fuel during exercise. This adaptation leads to an increase in fat loss while preserving and/or increasing lean muscle tissue. Eventually, the net effect you'll see will probably be a weight loss and definitely a fitter body. Don't let a number on a scale dictate what you're doing; that lack of a difference is actually a sign that things are going well. Keep up the great work and enjoy your results.

Source: fitlinxx.com