Losing your health / fitness during lockdown

[Gordon Bennett]

Got out on my bike yesterday and did 40Km. Need to do this more....

Mind you don't run out of petrol......

[winkywanky]

BTW Chorley, have you tried hanging yourself?

A bit harsh, no? 

[Xtro]

A bit harsh, no? 

Oh, I see the implications of that!   

By hanging from a pull up bar..... Helps decompress the spine and extends the thoracic part.   

[myothernameis]

Got out on my bike yesterday and did 40Km. Need to do this more....

I go out on my bike most days, and do a 20 mile circuit, into Glasgow and then home, but looks like the weather now changing, to more cooler and colder, so time for going to the gym

Cycling does keep you fit, but there are some area's like my stomach needs work done, so best place for me is the gym, and looking to get back to the gym next week.  Number of issues with my health, which need sorted, my weight, and problems with my back and legs

[winkywanky]

Oh, I see the implications of that!   

By hanging from a pull up bar..... Helps decompress the spine and extends the thoracic part.

I did know that, I was just trying to get you into trouble     

[Chorley]

I go out on my bike most days, and do a 20 mile circuit, into Glasgow and then home, but looks like the weather now changing, to more cooler and colder, so time for going to the gym

Cycling does keep you fit, but there are some area's like my stomach needs work done, so best place for me is the gym, and looking to get back to the gym next week.  Number of issues with my health, which need sorted, my weight, and problems with my back and legs

This is my next thing.Getting a bike and possibly commuting to work. Its about 8.5 miles on various lanes/tracks. Would you say this is doable for a beginner chaps? 

[myothernameis]

This is my next thing.Getting a bike and possibly commuting to work. Its about 8.5 miles on various lanes/tracks. Would you say this is doable for a beginner chaps? 

Yes very doable, but on your first few rides, take it easy, let your legs get used to the cycling, and before you know you will be addicted.

Now dont know if your work place has a cycle to work scheme, where basically you can save £100's of pounds on a new bike.  My current bike retail cost was £430, but through the cycle to work scheme, the bike on cost me £260.  Currently looking to get a new bike for next summer, and bikes I have been looking at are around £550, but with the salry sacrifice in work, I possibly end up paying around £400

[Chorley]

Yes very doable, but on your first few rides, take it easy, let your legs get used to the cycling, and before you know you will be addicted.

Now dont know if your work place has a cycle to work scheme, where basically you can save £100's of pounds on a new bike.  My current bike retail cost was £430, but through the cycle to work scheme, the bike on cost me £260.  Currently looking to get a new bike for next summer, and bikes I have been looking at are around £550, but with the salry sacrifice in work, I possibly end up paying around £400

I'm aware they do mate, but TBH I'm holding off due to Covid and the somewhat precarious financial situation my employer is in at the moment. Don't want to be saddled-if you'll pardon the pun  -with a debt if I get laid off. 

[winkywanky]

This is my next thing.Getting a bike and possibly commuting to work. Its about 8.5 miles on various lanes/tracks. Would you say this is doable for a beginner chaps? 

Each way? How hilly? That'll make a big difference. I guess as a newbie you might be talking about 45mins each way. Do you have a locker/shower facilities at work? Are you gonna be riding in the stuff you'll be working in all day?

These are the things to consider, the logistics as well as the actual physical effort of riding in.

[Blackpool Rock]

I'm aware they do mate, but TBH I'm holding off due to Covid and the somewhat precarious financial situation my employer is in at the moment. Don't want to be saddled-if you'll pardon the pun  -with a debt if I get laid off. 

Cycle to work scheme is deffo the way to do it as it works out tax free and you get an interest free loan to pay it off monthly.
I wouldn't let the threat of potential redundancy put you off after all if the company makes you redundant there is also a chance they miss the fact you owe X;Y or Z or they may simply write it off.
Also factor in how much you will save in fuel / transport costs getting to work which will offset any potential debt plus if you are made redundant you may be glad to get out on the bike for exercise and to kill some time.

The worst part IMO is that you are looking to do this at the start of Autumn / Winter rather than Spring / Summer 

Oh and my advise if you do get a bike would be to cycle to work and back at a weekend or day you aren't working to see how you get on and how long it takes you / how sweaty you are etc

[Strawberry]

Cycle to work scheme is deffo the way to do it as it works out tax free and you get an interest free loan to pay it off monthly.
I wouldn't let the threat of potential redundancy put you off after all if the company makes you redundant there is also a chance they miss the fact you owe X;Y or Z or they may simply write it off.
Also factor in how much you will save in fuel / transport costs getting to work which will offset any potential debt plus if you are made redundant you may be glad to get out on the bike for exercise and to kill some time.

The worst part IMO is that you are looking to do this at the start of Autumn / Winter rather than Spring / Summer 

Oh and my advise if you do get a bike would be to cycle to work and back at a weekend or day you aren't working to see how you get on and how long it takes you / how sweaty you are etc

If this is anything like the buy a computer schemes 15 or so years ago, unless something has changed the debt isn't written off if the employment ends even if that is instigated by the employer. Then the tax relief is removed and the entire amount becomes payable. Can be quite an unpleasant leaving present.

Also quite a few people buy the bikes, get to their first bike maintenance or run of wet weather and the bike never comes out again.

Advisable to invest in some decent water proofs, winter gloves and neoprene overshoes. These will get through most weather.

[Chorley]

    

Due to the arse sticking out (because of the APT), it will tend to "push out" the front of the body giving the illusion of a bit of belly even if you were/are slim.

BTW Chorley, have you tried hanging yourself? - External Link/Members Only

Well I tried this and....... I didn't realise something so simple could be so bloody hard and painful.
 I don't think I could even do 10 seconds at a time as I couldn't grip the bar and I this horrible feeling that my shoulders were going to pop out? Really quite demoralising. 
I guess you just have to get through the discomfort and keep doing it though as not doing it will not improve anything? 

[Strawberry]

Well I tried this and....... I didn't realise something so simple could be so bloody hard and painful.
 I don't think I could even do 10 seconds at a time as I couldn't grip the bar and I this horrible feeling that my shoulders were going to pop out? Really quite demoralising. 
I guess you just have to get through the discomfort and keep doing it though as not doing it will not improve anything? 

It'll improve I was given hanging to help with a shoulder injury, like anything needs practice.

Also makes James Bond stunts seem ridiculous.

[Chorley]

It'll improve I was given hanging to help with a shoulder injury, like anything needs practice.

Also makes James Bond stunts seem ridiculous.

Thanks, good to know.  Funnily enough I was thinking exactly the same thing about the Bond stunts -or any film where someone's hanging off something when I was doing this. 

[Xtro]

Thanks, good to know.  Funnily enough I was thinking exactly the same thing about the Bond stunts -or any film where someone's hanging off something when I was doing this. 

I can see it now.... Chorley Bond 000.5 in "The Spy that Couldn't Hang!"   

There's a difference between pain and discomfort. Be careful not to cross that threshold, especially in the early stages of any type of flexibility/mobility drills. What you're doing is rehabilitation, correcting what is wrong, weak, out of alignment, etc.
Have a warm up beforehand might work better for you, try some of these -
Shoulder Warm Up | COMPLETE Warm up For Injury Prevention, Mobility, & Alignment - External Link/Members Only

[orthopod]

I was a regular park runner before lockdown and for first couple of months during lockdown I hardly got out of bed, worked in bed etc.

I then took up running 5K on my own, increased it steadily and now I run 3 10Ks in a week and and a 30k on sunday. I feel like I am pushing my running abilities to places I didnt think I could.

I really recommend running, anybody can do it if I can. If you live in a small town, like I do, you can choose a country side path and it is fantastic to run at 5 in the morning in the rural roads. I am addicted!

[Xtro]

I was a regular park runner before lockdown and for first couple of months during lockdown I hardly got out of bed, worked in bed etc.

I then took up running 5K on my own, increased it steadily and now I run 3 10Ks in a week and and a 30k on sunday. I feel like I am pushing my running abilities to places I didnt think I could.

I really recommend running, anybody can do it if I can. If you live in a small town, like I do, you can choose a country side path and it is fantastic to run at 5 in the morning in the rural roads. I am addicted!

That'll be to do with the endocannabinoids causing a rewarding effect in the brain that you want to keep going back to.

Endocannabinoids and exercise - External Link/Members Only

From the above, "Evidence now supports the hypothesis that both endocannabinoids and exogenous cannabinoids induce a selective release of dopamine in the shell of nucleus accumbens through CB1 receptors. This evidence also suggests that the activation of endogenous cannabinoids through exercise could account for exercise addiction."

[Chorley]

I was a regular park runner before lockdown and for first couple of months during lockdown I hardly got out of bed, worked in bed etc.

I then took up running 5K on my own, increased it steadily and now I run 3 10Ks in a week and and a 30k on sunday. I feel like I am pushing my running abilities to places I didnt think I could.

I really recommend running, anybody can do it if I can. If you live in a small town, like I do, you can choose a country side path and it is fantastic to run at 5 in the morning in the rural roads. I am addicted!

I wish I could take up running again. However, years of agonising and persistent shin splints mean that's unlikely. 

[Chorley]

I can see it now.... Chorley Bond 000.5 in "The Spy that Couldn't Hang!"   

There's a difference between pain and discomfort. Be careful not to cross that threshold, especially in the early stages of any type of flexibility/mobility drills. What you're doing is rehabilitation, correcting what is wrong, weak, out of alignment, etc.
Have a warm up beforehand might work better for you, try some of these -
Shoulder Warm Up | COMPLETE Warm up For Injury Prevention, Mobility, & Alignment - External Link/Members Only

Lol  Re the warm up, I've actually recently started doing something similar but not without the bands. 

[Strawberry]

I wish I could take up running again. However, years of agonising and persistent shin splints mean that's unlikely. 

I injured myself taking up running in lockdown, always ends up the same. I've done it all right training, orthotics, starting slowly, stretches, strengthening (which I already have), read the books, physio. Anything more than ten minutes a few times a week, something starts. Annoying because I have a modicum of ability. I'm now back up to 1 mile 3 times a week.

[j_181]

I wish I could take up running again. However, years of agonising and persistent shin splints mean that's unlikely. 

I might have mentioned this before, but have you tried "barefoot" running shoes? With normal running shoes I would always get shin splints within a mile, a mate suggested trying them and I was able to do half-marathon last year with no shin pain. I find running on softer ground (grass, trails, etc) really helps too if you have access to somewhere you can do that.

[Adusarpong]

Started lifting weights in lockdown. It has changed my life. Have not felt this strong in years. Funnily enough i dont actually train alot. Been training three times a week for 20 minutes with 8.5 kg dumbells doing full body workouts. Life changer. Physique looking great

[Gordon Bennett]

If you're cycling get some lights pretty soon. Dark evenings are drawing in and the amount of cyclists you see out in the post 6pm murky conditions with no lights is shocking. Does my head in given you can get an adequate set of lights for a tenner. Lecture over!

[Xtro]

If you're cycling get some lights pretty soon. Dark evenings are drawing in and the amount of cyclists you see out in the post 6pm murky conditions with no lights is shocking. Does my head in given you can get an adequate set of lights for a tenner. Lecture over!

Those without lights are just as special as those without masks!

[Dickled]

Does masturbation count as exercise?

[Chorley]

Started lifting weights in lockdown. It has changed my life. Have not felt this strong in years. Funnily enough i dont actually train alot. Been training three times a week for 20 minutes with 8.5 kg dumbells doing full body workouts. Life changer. Physique looking great

Tell me about it. I've started doing a weight training routine and also stretching/ mobility programme. While I'm never going to be in the cover of Men's Health I've now got a fairly flat stomach and the beginnigs of visible abs

[Xtro]

Tell me about it. I've started doing a weight training routine and also stretching/ mobility programme. While I'm never going to be in the cover of Men's Health I've now got a fairly flat stomach and the beginnigs of visible abs

Well done Chorley.   
I'm glad you're sticking to it and seeing great results.

[Chorley]

Well done Chorley.   
I'm glad you're sticking to it and seeing great results.

Cheers Xtro. I feel bloody knackered though, but in a good way. 

[Blackpool Rock]

Cheers Xtro. I feel bloody knackered though, but in a good way. 

That's the conversation i've had many times with a mate who also does the gym, if you don't exercise for a week you feel tired; lethargic and ache but in a bad way whereas after exercise you feel the same way but in a subtly different "good" way.

I normally have something to eat after a hard workout then a couple of hours later tiredness kicks in and I grab 40 winks but that tends to recharge my batteries and I wake up feeling full of energy again 
Exercise makes your body produce all sorts of endorphins etc or "Feel good" drugs which are apparently as addictive as drugs like Heroin 

[Chorley]

Does anyone have any experience of using creatine? I've seen a lot written about it and I'd be interested to know people's experiences with using the powders that are available.

[Strawberry]

Does anyone have any experience of using creatine? I've seen a lot written about it and I'd be interested to know people's experiences with using the powders that are available.

Creatine is one of the most researched supplements, considered very safe and effective. The effect is subtle, it's cheap so I just carry on taking it. Also supposed to bring a variety of benefits in mid to later life, reduces falls, seems to help maintain bone density.

[Xtro]

Does anyone have any experience of using creatine? I've seen a lot written about it and I'd be interested to know people's experiences with using the powders that are available.

All I know, in a nutshell.....

"Don't take creatine if you have a history of kidney disease or you have conditions such as diabetes that increase the risk of kidney problems." - External Link/Members Only

Creatine (monohydrate) - See here - External Link/Members Only
FAQ - External Link/Members Only

Make sure that what you buy is from Creapure® as they are the highest quality on the market.   
Don't waste extra cash on gels, tabs, etc... just go for the powdered stuff about £13-£15 (500g).
External Link/Members Only
I use this company.  External Link/Members Only   Sign up to their mailing system.
I buy enough protein powder, creatine, etc, and get great discounts and free delivery. Looks like thet are doing 35% off total order ATM.
External Link/Members Only

It's recommended to increase water intake as creatine is a cell volumiser, (water retention in this instance) -
External Link/Members Only

Further reading - External Link/Members Only   He says, "In fact, if that water weight happens to be largely intracellular fluid (which it often is), not only should that water weight lead to increased strength, but it may also lead to increased protein synthesis, increased muscle mass, and long term growth."

However, this study External Link/Members Only  concludes, "...... supplementation does result in water retention. It was initially hypothesized that the water would be preferentially retained intracellularly, altering fluid distribution. However, this was not observed. Therefore, the theory of a Cr-related fluid shift is not supported because fluid distribution remained normal."

Anyway, you might also consider Beta-Alanine; (My summarised) overview from here - External Link/Members Only
"Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid, and together with histidine, they produce carnosine. In your muscles, histidine levels are normally high and beta-alanine levels low, which limits the production of carnosine. Carnosine reduces lactic acid accumulation in your muscles during exercise, which leads to improved athletic performance. Supplementing with beta-alanine has been shown to elevate carnosine levels in muscles by 80%".

From this study, Effects of β-alanine supplementation during a 5-week strength training program: a randomized, controlled study -
External Link/Members Only
"Conclusions - β-Alanine supplementation was effective at increasing power output when lifting loads equivalent to the individual’s maximal strength or when working at maximum power output. The improvement observed at 1RM was explained by a greater load lifted, or strength gain, in response to training in the participants who took this supplement."

"Five weeks of supplementation with 6.4 g/day of β-alanine compared with placebo during strength training led to increases in: 1) power output for loads equivalent to 1RM; 2) kilograms lifted at 1RM; 3) power output gains at maximum power; 4) the number of sets executed; and 5) the pre-post gain in kilograms lifted at 1RM in an incremental load test.

The ergogenic effects of β-alanine supplementation on power generation were the result of an increased work load. No effects of supplementation were produced on velocity of movement variables or on CMJ test performance (jump height and power)."

I've also read somewhere that both creatine and β-alanine supplementation work more effectively for untrained individuals compared to elite athletes.

Creatine is one of the most researched supplements, considered very safe and effective.......

+1   

..... Also supposed to bring a variety of benefits in mid to later life, reduces falls, seems to help maintain bone density.

Can you dig out any relevant links pls?

[Strawberry]

All I know, in a nutshell.....

"Don't take creatine if you have a history of kidney disease or you have conditions such as diabetes that increase the risk of kidney problems." - External Link/Members Only

Creatine (monohydrate) - See here - External Link/Members Only
FAQ - External Link/Members Only

Make sure that what you buy is from Creapure® as they are the highest quality on the market.   
Don't waste extra cash on gels, tabs, etc... just go for the powdered stuff about £13-£15 (500g).
External Link/Members Only
I use this company.  External Link/Members Only   Sign up to their mailing system.
I buy enough protein powder, creatine, etc, and get great discounts and free delivery. Looks like thet are doing 35% off total order ATM.
External Link/Members Only

It's recommended to increase water intake as creatine is a cell volumiser, (water retention in this instance) -
External Link/Members Only

Further reading - External Link/Members Only   He says, "In fact, if that water weight happens to be largely intracellular fluid (which it often is), not only should that water weight lead to increased strength, but it may also lead to increased protein synthesis, increased muscle mass, and long term growth."

However, this study External Link/Members Only  concludes, "...... supplementation does result in water retention. It was initially hypothesized that the water would be preferentially retained intracellularly, altering fluid distribution. However, this was not observed. Therefore, the theory of a Cr-related fluid shift is not supported because fluid distribution remained normal."

Anyway, you might also consider Beta-Alanine; (My summarised) overview from here - External Link/Members Only
"Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid, and together with histidine, they produce carnosine. In your muscles, histidine levels are normally high and beta-alanine levels low, which limits the production of carnosine. Carnosine reduces lactic acid accumulation in your muscles during exercise, which leads to improved athletic performance. Supplementing with beta-alanine has been shown to elevate carnosine levels in muscles by 80%".

From this study, Effects of β-alanine supplementation during a 5-week strength training program: a randomized, controlled study -
External Link/Members Only
"Conclusions - β-Alanine supplementation was effective at increasing power output when lifting loads equivalent to the individual’s maximal strength or when working at maximum power output. The improvement observed at 1RM was explained by a greater load lifted, or strength gain, in response to training in the participants who took this supplement."

"Five weeks of supplementation with 6.4 g/day of β-alanine compared with placebo during strength training led to increases in: 1) power output for loads equivalent to 1RM; 2) kilograms lifted at 1RM; 3) power output gains at maximum power; 4) the number of sets executed; and 5) the pre-post gain in kilograms lifted at 1RM in an incremental load test.

The ergogenic effects of β-alanine supplementation on power generation were the result of an increased work load. No effects of supplementation were produced on velocity of movement variables or on CMJ test performance (jump height and power)."

I've also read somewhere that both creatine and β-alanine supplementation work more effectively for untrained individuals compared to elite athletes.



+1   

Can you dig out any relevant links pls?

We Do Science podcast mention the effect on bone mass with regards to post menopausal women. Also a few studies regards reducing falls in older people. Will leave you to find them, BTW I am usually sceptical about supplements, so whenever I post about something it's usually from a good source even if I don't quote or link to it.

[Metalcrue]

Does anyone have any experience of using creatine? I've seen a lot written about it and I'd be interested to know people's experiences with using the powders that are available.

Definitely a top supplement take.

There are a few differing opinions on how to take.

Some people mention to "load" for 1 week first. That involves 15-20g a day and then 5g every day for 12 weeks. Have a few weeks off and then repeat.

Others who have been slightly sensitive to the loading amounts suggest 5g a day for as long as you need.

Your body will hold a little more water so it is worth keeping hydrated  and taken before a workout will leave you with a good pump.

It will aid strength and recovery. Its been stressful with work, I've been ill and training has been slightly inconsistent, but strength wise with my recent restart on creatine I have taken my squat from a 1 rep max of 90kg to 95kg x3 x2.

I've found benefits in strength, size and recovery.

Myprotein or bulkpowders do good deals on bags of creatine.

[Chorley]

Definitely a top supplement take.

There are a few differing opinions on how to take.

Some people mention to "load" for 1 week first. That involves 15-20g a day and then 5g every day for 12 weeks. Have a few weeks off and then repeat.

Others who have been slightly sensitive to the loading amounts suggest 5g a day for as long as you need.

Your body will hold a little more water so it is worth keeping hydrated  and taken before a workout will leave you with a good pump.

It will aid strength and recovery. Its been stressful with work, I've been ill and training has been slightly inconsistent, but strength wise with my recent restart on creatine I have taken my squat from a 1 rep max of 90kg to 95kg x3 x2.

I've found benefits in strength, size and recovery.

Myprotein or bulkpowders do good deals on bags of creatine.

Cheers for this. 


 I'm still doing the same routine of calisthenics and weigh training and also walking; when it's not pissing down with rain that is!!! 
Nothing dramatic really body wise, although I do have slight visible abs, definition in my chest and best to f all, my anterior pelvic tilt seems to be improving. I've not been totally perfect and ended up having a bit of an alcohol binge two nights in a row. I've avoided the junk food though and cook from scratch no matter how tired I am.

I still have a bit of belly flab, but looking up it may well be stress related as work has been a nightmare for the past few months and somnething I thought I had finally sorted has now landed back on my desk as an even bigger shit show!!!  This has also left me feeling mentally and physically exhausted which no dpoubt has affected my sleep quality drastically?

Still, I've decided to plod on, depsite feeling pretty crap and not beat myself up when I slack off a bit. I know I'll get back on it soon enough. I 've just ordered a kelltlebell online (12kg), so should hopefully be able to start next week?

Does anyone have any experience of these as people absoltely rave about them and some of the transformations I've seen have been amazing.?

[Strawberry]

A kettle bell is simply a weight of a particular shape, nothing magical.

Their shape can allow a variety of exercises, but most can be done with any other weight.

The handle can be handy, sometimes easier to move. That is about it.

I use them inverted to help with a shoulder injury, don't have any at home because I'd want a range. Adjustable dumbbells, barbell, bands and a trx give me the range I need.

Well done on becoming interested and motivated, that's a good sign.

[Chorley]

A kettle bell is simply a weight of a particular shape, nothing magical.

Their shape can allow a variety of exercises, but most can be done with any other weight.

The handle can be handy, sometimes easier to move. That is about it.

I use them inverted to help with a shoulder injury, don't have any at home because I'd want a range. Adjustable dumbbells, barbell, bands and a trx give me the range I need.

Well done on becoming interested and motivated, that's a good sign.

Might as well use this time to get fit and healthy. It might protect me against Covid and let's be honest, there's pretty much sod all else to do? 

[winkywanky]

I thought a kettle belle was a gf who was always happy to get a brew going, whatever the circumstances might be?

10/10 in my book 

[Xtro]

I'm still doing the same routine of calisthenics and weigh training and also wanking;

Corrected for you Chorley.      

.......
Still, I've decided to plod on, depsite feeling pretty crap and not beat myself up when I slack off a bit. I know I'll get back on it soon enough. I 've just ordered a kelltlebell online (12kg), so should hopefully be able to start next week?

Does anyone have any experience of these as people absoltely rave about them and some of the transformations I've seen have been amazing.?

Be careful of injuries mate.

TOP 3 KETTLEBELL INJURIES (and how to avoid them!) - External Link/Members Only

[myothernameis]

Might as well use this time to get fit and healthy. It might protect me against Covid and let's be honest, there's pretty much sod all else to do? 

Same here, along with taking Vit-d, which my doctor recommended back in March, currently go 4 days per week, and at the moment just doing 60 - 75 cardio.   Since the beginning of Sept, I have already lost around 8 lbs in weight, and it now getting to the point, I look forward to my gym sessions

[Xtro]

I thought a kettle belle was a gf who was always happy to get a brew going, whatever the circumstances might be?

10/10 in my book 

I hear she uses a male teabag..... Thus, you end up with a Hebrew!   

[Gordon Bennett]

If you're over 50 you must remember this...... Ad was in every paper, comic and magazine you picked up. Did his "dynamic tension" thing actually work though???? As far as I can tell it just involved staring at a muscle and flexing it like billy-ho for 5 minutes - sort of mind/muscle connection but with no weights involved. Now they've shut my gym I might try it for a few weeks. Wonder if works on cocks?????



Hidden Image/Members Only

[Chorley]

Same here, along with taking Vit-d, which my doctor recommended back in March, currently go 4 days per week, and at the moment just doing 60 - 75 cardio.   Since the beginning of Sept, I have already lost around 8 lbs in weight, and it now getting to the point, I look forward to my gym sessions

I've actually put on weight. I'm almost 85kg  now.  Is this muscle? 

[ulstersubbie]

If you're over 50 you must remember this...... Ad was in every paper, comic and magazine you picked up. Did his "dynamic tension" thing actually work though???? As far as I can tell it just involved staring at a muscle and flexing it like billy-ho for 5 minutes - sort of mind/muscle connection but with no weights involved. Now they've shut my gym I might try it for a few weeks. Wonder if works on cocks?????



Hidden Image/Members Only

That is a blast from the past GB, I doubt it works on cocks though!!

[Xtro]

I've actually put on weight. I'm almost 85kg  now.  Is this muscle? 

If your waist (where men put on the fat pounds) has shrunk and you look slimmer (naked in the mirror, dare I say) then it's more than likely you've added some muscle mass.
Muscle is denser than fat, therefore taking up less room.
However, The body is more effective at losing fat than what it is at building muscle.
If the muscle gains are that significant then you must have worked your socks off to achieve this in such a short amount of time and more than likely you are genetically gifted for hypertrophy, (muscle gain).

You may be drinking more water now that you're exercising which can add weight; considering that about two thirds of our body is water. I think you also enquired about creatine monohydrate and this can cause some water retention too.
Be consistant with the time of day you weigh yourself too.

I very much doubt though that your muscle weight gain has exceeded your fat weight loss, even if your diet and training regime are perfect!
Read this blog from people on the frontline of body composition data gathering,
The most incredible body re-composition we've ever seen -
External Link/Members Only

and this might help too, How to keep muscle when losing fat -
External Link/Members Only

[Sheraton]

Does anyone know whether there is a quick / cheap way to measure one's body fat and muscle mass ? I've lost weight and feel I've put on muscle but would like to measure the data over time...thanks

[Strawberry]

Does anyone know whether there is a quick / cheap way to measure one's body fat and muscle mass ? I've lost weight and feel I've put on muscle but would like to measure the data over time...thanks

Bodyfat scales and handheld devices both using bioimpedance claim to do this, can be comparative also can be very inaccurate.

Dexascans tend to be the best and most accessible, also provide a break down of body areas, left, right, and internal fat which can be really interesting as well as useful.

[Xtro]

Does anyone know whether there is a quick / cheap way to measure one's body fat and muscle mass ? I've lost weight and feel I've put on muscle but would like to measure the data over time...thanks

Dexascan, as Strawberry points out, is the gold standard for this type of measurement. The initial scan, atm, will cost you £169 with these guys - External Link/Members Only
Sign up to their updates and you may pay a lot less when they decide to do discounts.

Have a look at these videos, they may help  -
How to Measure Body Fat (IN HOME METHOD!) - External Link/Members Only
Body Fat for Abs to Show - The Truth! (MEN AND WOMEN) - External Link/Members Only

If you can pinch more than inch around the waist, you're carrying excess subcutaneous fat, this could be an indicator that you have too much visceral fat, which is the fat under the muscles and around the organs; too much can be dangerous.
What Is Subcutaneous Fat? - External Link/Members Only
Visceral Fat - External Link/Members Only

I hope this helps.

[Gordon Bennett]

If your waist (where men put on the fat pounds) has shrunk and you look slimmer (naked in the mirror, dare I say) then it's more than likely you've added some muscle mass.
Muscle is denser than fat, therefore taking up less room.
However, The body is more effective at losing fat than what it is at building muscle.
If the muscle gains are that significant then you must have worked your socks off to achieve this in such a short amount of time and more than likely you are genetically gifted for hypertrophy, (muscle gain).

You may be drinking more water now that you're exercising which can add weight; considering that about two thirds of our body is water. I think you also enquired about creatine monohydrate and this can cause some water retention too.
Be consistant with the time of day you weigh yourself too.

I very much doubt though that your muscle weight gain has exceeded your fat weight loss, even if your diet and training regime are perfect!
Read this blog from people on the frontline of body composition data gathering,
The most incredible body re-composition we've ever seen -
External Link/Members Only

and this might help too, How to keep muscle when losing fat -
External Link/Members Only

I think it's hard to discern gradual weight loss or change in body composition by looking in a mirror. If you look in mirror every day or so for a month you end up comparing yourself to the previous day's reflection so any change is literally a few ounces/mms and not perceptible. Even if you've significantly shrunk over the month, you can't really see it as you've forgotten the reflection of 30+ days ago.
Best solution is taking a full body selfie then and now. When you place those images side-by-side the loss is starkly visible and the clear evidence of change in physique gives you the mental boost to proceed with your regime with a confidence it's working.
In a lot of cases, the catalyst for embarking on weight loss is the shock/horror of seeing a photo of yourself the size of a whale. Before you saw that photo you had the warped view that you were still in decent slim shape..... brain sees what it wants to see kind of thing, that's why mirrors are not the best for making honest impartial appraisals.

[Sheraton]

Strawberry and Xtro -- thanks for the insights, very useful.  I think trending the data over time will reveal whether my training and eating habits are having the desired effect.  I'll look at the links more carefully when I have time.  I'm grateful for your time..