How long does a weight loss plateau last?

A plateau can last between eight and twelve weeks, but it also varies on an individual level. After that, it's much easier for us to resume a period of weight loss. Plateaus occur when a person who has seen results consistently over an extended period of time experiences a stagnation in their weight loss for a minimum of four weeks. Understand that four weeks is usually the minimum amount of time without results.

Plateaus can last longer if the person doesn't make the necessary changes to their weight loss plan to break the plateau. When a person reaches a weight loss plateau, they will no longer lose weight, despite following a diet and fitness regimen. Research shows that weight loss stagnates after about 6 months of following a low-calorie diet. A plateau in weight loss can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

To be honest, it's up to you. If you agree with the plan and just need to get back on the wagon, do so. Ask a friend to hold you accountable, if that helps. Also consider how long it has been.

So don't give up or drastically change your plan right away. You may need to try a more intense weight training for a while or switch to circuits instead of superseries. The plateau of weight loss happens because, while your mind might be focused on losing weight, your body is focused on maintaining what Dr. This reaction to severe calorie restriction can cause you to recover beyond your initial weight, resulting in weight gain beyond your starting weight once you return to eating your 2,000 calories daily.

Usually, when you lose weight, you lose more when you first start your plan and then less as you go. If your weight loss plateau was caused by rookie gains, as mentioned above, you should start seeing some progress again in a few weeks. One of the reasons for the plateau is that your body adapts to physical stress, making it easier to perform a movement due to stronger muscles or increased cardiovascular capacity and endurance. When you hit a plateau, you may have lost all the weight you would lose with your current diet and exercise plan.

After that initial rapid weight loss, your body will settle into it and you should start to see slower progress. A study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that sleeping the same number of hours and an adequate number of hours improved weight loss results. Your body may say that this is the weight it wants to maintain naturally, so stick to your healthy eating and fitness plan, and you'll stay close to this size. If you can't further reduce the calories you eat or increase your physical activity, you may want to return to your weight-loss goal.

It can take three to five years for your body to stabilize, adapt to weight loss, and accept a new weight as a new set point, he adds. You don't have to continuously increase the duration of your workouts to avoid a plateau in weight loss. Keep reading to learn more about why weight loss stagnations occur and what people can do to overcome them. Anyone who feels they have stagnated in weight loss may want to talk to a dietitian, certified personal trainer, or doctor.

Gerald Clabaugh
Gerald Clabaugh

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