The hCG diet and exercise

This morning, my weight was 147.0#, down 2.4# from yesterday.

There seems to be some confusion as to whether exercise is allowed on the hCG diet. Some people are under the impression that exercise is not allowed at all. Dr. Simeons did say in his book, Pounds and Inches, that weight lost by “violent exercise” is temporary and rapidly regained. I would liken “violent exercise” to that done by contestants on “The Biggest Loser.” This is quite different from the normal moderate amounts of exercise that should be part of any on-going fitness plan.

It is possible that exercise can cause a gain if one engages in it after a period of inactivity. This is not a phenomenon of the hCG diet. It can happen in any diet and fitness program. This effect is temporary and does not increase body fat. Moderate exercise can help keep the metabolism high and prevent muscle loss. Walking and yoga are good choices for those on the hCG diet.

The topic of exercise on the hCG diet is covered in the section, “Other Reasons for a Gain.” Dr. Simeons said in his text that he encouraged swimming specifically, though I believe this should not be taken to mean that swimming should be the only form of exercise engaged in while on the hCG diet. He also says, “the weight can temporarily increase – paradoxical though this may sound – after an exceptional physical exertion of long duration leading to a feeling of exhaustion.” Again, I don’t believe this means that he discourages exercise. He is only saying that you may see a temporary increase in weight due to water retention if you do engage in vigorous exercise. You will still be losing fat, and the retained water will soon be released.

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