Should I bother?

[Zipz]

Should I even bother trying to lose fat while building muscle or is it pointless? I learned a lot from muscle and brawn about why I should get strong but I still need to lose fat. Right now I am 5'8 235 and look pretty pathetic in the mirror.

[J_Byrd]

If that is the goal then go for it. Keep a diet log, and have some of more experienced people on the board give you some guidance. It is a very realistic goal to gain muscle while losing fat. Best of luck in your goals!!

[5kgLifter]

Originally Posted by Zipz

Should I even bother trying to lose fat while building muscle or is it pointless? I learned a lot from muscle and brawn about why I should get strong but I still need to lose fat. Right now I am 5'8 235 and look pretty pathetic in the mirror.

If you're a beginner, or have had a relatively decent break before starting up, or are just fortunate enough to hit diet and exercise just right...you will be able to do both at the same time.

Building muscle and losing fat simultaneously will mean the scales may not accurately reflect what is occurring so it would be best to use a tape measure as well.

[MikeC]

If you improve your strength while knocking off 30-50 pounds over the next year you'll probably be very pleased with how you look. One step at a time.

[bamazav]

Contrary to common thought, you can lose fat and build muscle at the same time. Tain't easy, but it can be done. The key is more in the kitchen than in the gym.

[Off Road]

Ah yes, the never-ending question; Can you lose weight and gain muscle at the same time?

I'm sure it's entirely possible if you are really fat, a real newbie, or have some super secret supplements in your bag. But for the rest of us it's a painfully slow process that has little room for error. Do you have that patience and are you that precise with your macros and nutritional timing? If not, do yourself a favor and pick one goal at a time. Remember it's faster to lose fat than it is to gain muscle, so I will recommend getting in shape first.