[polak]

I worked out consistently and with decent intensity for significant stretches of time since High School. Usually lasted around 6 months at a time before getting discouraged, I'd then take some time off and go for a 4-6 month cycle again. It's almost an annual thing. I've actually tried a couple 5x5 work outs in that time.

I always got discouraged cause every time I've either stayed the same weight or lost weight over the stretch of time that I was working out. My strength increased and I was able to lift significantly more which was always encouraging but then as soon as I stepped on the scale and the number basically stayed the same (+ or - 3-5 lbs) I lost the motivation.

I have myfitness pal on my phone and I'm no where near my caloric intake goals. My diet is just too inconsistent. When I was researching my work out and diet plans I estimated that I needed to exceed 3,000 calories daily in order to have net gain caloric intake for the days I worked out (and that's if I didn't do cardio). Every single time I exceeded 3000 calories I had stomach issues the next day. It's just not worth it to me.

That's why I'm shifting my focus. I can accomplish all of my other fitness goals (endurance and strength) if I stop getting discouraged by a lack of weight gain. I also enjoy running so no longer avoiding it in my work out plans to save precious calories will be great.

And as you said, who knows, maybe the weight gain will come on its own.