Whats a safe weight to lose in a week?

[hoyle21]

I was 6-4 280 when I started lifting and eating better. I am down to 265.

I am averaging about 3 lbs a week in weight loss, and am getting stronger. Is there a magic number in how much weight can be safely lost in a week while still being able to build muscle mass? Just trying to figure out if I can cut back more or stay on pace.

Thanks in advance.

[gbrice75]

It's very difficult to build muscle mass while losing bodyfat - not impossible over the course of time, but difficult. I'd be more focused on maintaining LBM while losing bodyfat. There is no magic number, but a generally accepted number is around 1.5lbs/week.

[MBMETC]

i would say about a 2lb a week lose would be a "safe" number anything more would mean a extremly large caloric deficite is in place.

[charcold]

I agree with the above.

Ive seen those weight loss shows, where they are supposedly losing 7-8lbs a week, thats F'in crazy!

[hoyle21]

Thanks, I think Ill keep sticking with what I am doing and pay close attention to my gains. If I see a let down or decrease in energy I can always add some good calories to my diet.

I really love this sight, you guys all do a great job of answering quick, and it is always good sound advice.

[SergeantCarbs]

If your able & willing to keep having your body fat % tested each week, you could then calculate and compare whether what you lost came from fat or lean body mass.

[hoyle21]

If your able & willing to keep having your body fat % tested each week, you could then calculate and compare whether what you lost came from fat or lean body mass.

That would be a bit expensive. I have been measuring my waist and how much fat I can pull. It is steadily going down, although I know that doesnt mean I am not losing muscle as well. I am making positive gains with my weights though.