Why did I gain inches after exercise?

[MoonstoneWolf]

First I'm not interested in the weight loss.  The scale is not always indicative of what the clothes and tape measure say.  I'd rather be 180 lbs and be fit then 130 lbs and trying to squeeze into a size 10 jeans.  With that said is there any logical explanation as to why I was 49 inches in my stomach the other day and yet today after I started walking (a lot) I am back to 51 inches in the stomach area?  Thanks.   🙂

[WavyDavey · Accepted solution]

Probably hydration levels. I don't think it's related to exercise exactly. The amount of fat it would take to add an inch isn't something that you could consume in one day.

[MarciM]

I'd suggest measuring at the same time of day and under the same conditions (you'd not eaten and/or only had 1 glass of water). Also I have been told not to weigh or measure within 3 hours of taking a shower or intense exercise. Blood flow can change your weight distribution.

[MarciM]

Interesting read 'A Fitness Trainer Comes Clean About Exercise-Related Weight Gain'. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kelly-coffey/a-trainer-comes-clean-abo_b_5977286.html

[davy.franko84]

its called muscle

[SunsetRunner]

Hydration levels or elimination could easily account for an inch.  Time of day when you measure can have an effect as well (Weight first thing in the morning is different than weight even an hour later).