Sean H wrote:
This happens very easily when you go from a very high volume of exercise down to a low level. You are used to eating for that large volume of exercise and your hunger doesn't decrease with the decrease in exercise. Combine that with the person having a few more treats here and there and wham you're 10 lbs above race weight in just a few weeks time.
But I don't think this is necessarily a bad thing. The body gets to completely recover and get ready for the next round.
This is exactly what happened to me.
Stopped racing/training and burning 22,500 calories/wk, went to minimal training and relaxing lifestyle where I'm likely only burning less than half of that 10,000 calores/wk.
Food consumption didn't change, added in a few extra beers, some extra slices of pizza, halloween candy. Pretty easy to add 10lbs on in a couple of weeks.
How long will it take to burn off, about the same as it took to put on, give or take.
I've already adjusted my portion and volume to reflect reduced training. I've slightly increased training as well.
I'll knock it back down in 2 months or so.
Race weight is not a comfortable living weight for me. I hate constantly being hungry and watching what I eat, not enjoying a few drinks. It's not an unhealthy weight but I certainly would prefer to just have the 5 extra lbs and not worry about things. I'm happy to have a few extra in the off-season that I can manage away as next season approaches.