new member

Glad I found this forum! Things certainly have changed over the years.
I'm 55 yrs old, a portly 187 and 5'8".  Just came down from the all time high of 194.  Getting back into shape, finally.
 
Last time I worked/trained was 7 years ago.  Went from 183 to 160 in 5 months using the zone system of nutrition.  I basically balances protein, carbs and fat.  I also worked out in the gym and cut out all alcohol  during that period.
 
Now I'm starting again, so the question of the day is, lose the weight first or can I train and lose the weight at the same time?  Last time I mostly used machines rather than free weights at the gym and was diligent about the using the exercise bike.

I am hoping someone will weigh in on my question.  The question is, is it reasonable to attempt to lose weight and build muscle at the same time?

Yes, you can lose weight and build muscle at the same time. You will have to have a good diet though in order to do this.


Also WELCOME TO THE BOARD!!!

We should live our lives as though Christ was coming this afternoon. - Jimmy Carter

Thanks Andy. Using the zone the weight is coming off as I expected.  I suspect I will need to add a bit more protein to build at the same time.   Typical meals are protein shake in the am(pear, banana, 1 scoop protein, 1 tablespoon ground seeds, flax, sesame, pumpkin and sunflower, balance bar snack in the morning, chicken or chef salad for lunch(protein portion about the size of my hand), balance bar in the afternoon for snack and small portion of steak, chicken or fish(again size of hand), with veggies and salad.  No bread or starches, etc.  my guess is that the intake is maybe 100-125 grams of protein per day at this point.

YOu need to make sure you take in the required calories for your goals, you are choosing great items but need to also utilize fibrous greens, you may already be but thought I would emphasize this.  2-3 liters of water, meals spread over 2-3 hours each time for 6 or so meals per day, some almonds and brown rice, yams are all good carbs.
Fish is also good to add or soy products which are high in protein and low in carb and salt.
Linda

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