How soon do you start seeing weight loss?

[jwr12]

I seem to remember hearing somewhere that when you first start a fitness program (and calorie control) it takes a while to see weight change, as your body adjusts to the new regime.  Is that true? How many weeks of working out / being more diet conscious does it take to start seeing weight loss?  Thanks!

[gerrymcd]

There is no universal answer...... it might take a week, or a month, or even longer before the scales change or you are tighening your belt a notch.  It all depends on individual physiology, the amount of exercise (strength workouts might initially cause muscles to retain water), how big the change is in the person's lifestyle (sedentary to working out 3 times a week, or changing from being active 3 times a week to 6 days out of 7).  There are too many variable to come up with an answer.  But, as I'm sure many people will tell you.....its encouraging and morale boosting to see some change quickly, but its really all about making permanent lifestyle changes that promote health and fitness. In which case, its better to think long into the future.  What will your life be like at age 40, 60, 80 if you eat right and regularly exercise compared what it will be like if you don't.

[Staci32]

I think it really depends on what you are doing and how often. Last week I was told I had to go gluten free. I haven't changed anything other than that and have lost 6 lbs already. 

[WaltTN]

I've lost 30 lbs roughly since August 2013, but to be honest, I personally don't see it.  My belt loop is a couple notches tighter, but that's the only way I know there is some change.  When you first start out, and you are severely overweight like I am, and inch loss is just not readibly visible.  Just have to keep at it and you'll start seeing it at some point.