What I did was increase my protein intake a bit and drop my carbs a bit, while lifting 3-4 days a week, heavy, until I had my strength back (not to where I was 8 years ago, but stronger than your average 48 year old mom.)I ate 5-6 times day and still do, to get my metbolism humming along.
Then, having lowered my BF% but with no pound loss, I upped my cardio (per WarLobo) to 1 hour, lowered my cals (due to age and thyroid misbehaviour) and now I lift as heavy as I can stand, but only 2 days a week.
NOw I've lost pounds, have some definition (enough to keep my morale up) and I continue to make strength gains. My BF% is dropping, too. I guess I had miniature cutting and bulking cycles.
When I first lifted, I could burn fat and make muscle almost at the same time, but not now.
As I eat an Isocalorie diet (equal %s of fat, carbs, protein) I just feed my family the same way. If they want ice cream, etc. fine, I just don't eat it.
Are you getting stronger? Are you losing inches?
------------------
It's not funny, like on TV, and it's not smart, like it is in books.
[This message has been edited by keiko (edited April 16, 2001).]