Atkins & Working Out...

Well first of all, carbohydrates are what fuels the body, so I'm not sure how effective it is to work out and be on a low carb diet. When you work out your body needs carbs because if it doesn't have them then there is no efficiency in the work out. I can't imagine trying to work out without eating carbs before hand because then your body will have nothing to use.

I don't want to tell u what to do, but I wouldn't diet like that AND work out. Like stated, without carbs your workouts will be pointless. Also, carbs are required to replenish your glucose levels. Your muslces use glucose as u work out, when ur muscles dont want to lift anymore its in part because ur glucose levels have been depleted. Imagine without carbs.

In my opinion, just eat healthy. I started working out about a year and a half ago. I don't take supplements or drugs because I despise them really, I want to be all natural. Over time, as your body builds muscle mass, with or without dieting, you will lose weight(unless u eat horribly). Cut the junk food out, consume things that are healthy and you will definatly love the results. Make sure to eat a large amount of protein AND carbs(sugar doesnt count, grains do!) if you are serious about lifting weights. Also don't forget vitamin C, you need alot, we all do. Drink alot of milk as it is loaded with protein and calcium(required for muscle function as well as bone density.)

Sorry if i described a diet that you don't want to do, but I don't think atkins would be good while working out. The way I see it, if it's natural, eat it. The majority of synthetic things are loaded with crap that strain your body.

Fat to muscle (of course, I don't CHANGING into muscle, I mean the weight will change from mostly fat to mostly muscle). You will eventually even out and if you want to lose more will just have to cut a bit of what you're eating.

Well...actually it is effective to workout while on the Atkins Diet. Sure carbs fuel the body but when carbs are not available the body uses stored fat as energy. So when you're exercising you will be burning fat. Don't listen to the first two replies because your body will be using fat as its primary source of energy because your body has no carbs to turn to for energy. Trust me...as a pre-med student, this was the first thing I learned about in college. Exercise will definately be beneficial and help aid greatly in the dieting process.

I agree. I wouldn't work out either. But do get some exersice. I did the Adkins faithfully for 8 months and lost 85lbs!! All I did was walk 20 minutes a day, then started pilates once a week...that's it!! Honestly.. It's been over 2 years since I've been off the adkins, and just eating regularly, and i will be honest. I have gained 30lbs back. But, my exercise is not up to par. I'm back in school, and then i work at a desk! I've been trying to get back into it.. I've even been taking some diet pills.. Not seeing too much of a result. I have lost almost 10 lbs... But I know if I was doing the walking, it would make a difference!!! I can't wait till summer!!!
Take care.. and good luck.. birdykb

I was on atkins and working out the last 7-8 months. On and off the atkins but working out consistently (even on a biggest loser contest for 10 weeks). I lost over 50 pds and felt very energetic. I have tons of muscle and my fat was melting off. I am now back on atkins after being off for 3-4 weeks and need to get back to working out as I find I lose weight faster. I eat carb bars (where the carbs are high but net carbs are low due to sugar alcohol and fiber). so I am getting my carbs yet not the sugar. I also drink a protein shake (2 net carbs) 17 protein after every workout.

I lost 50+ pds but lost more in inches due to my fat turning to muscle and my legs were 100% toned, etc.