When you think about gaining muscle, you might envision a man with bulging biceps and a six-pack. However, women can gain muscle too! If you’re wondering if you’re making progress at the gym, here are six signs that you’re gaining muscle mass.
1. Your Clothes Fit Differently
If your clothes are starting to feel tighter in the chest or arms, it could be a sign that your muscles are growing. Of course, weight gain can also cause your clothes to feel tighter, so be sure to track your progress with measurements or photos in addition to how your clothes fit.
2. You Can Lift More Weight
If you’re able to increase the weight you’re lifting over time, it’s a good indication that you’re gaining muscle mass. Beginners might see the biggest increases in the amount of weight they can lift, but even if you’ve been working out for a while, you should still see gradual increases as your muscles get stronger.
3. You Have More Energy
When you start working out consistently and eating a healthy diet, you should have more energy overall. If you find that you have more energy throughout the day or that it’s easier to wake up in the morning, it could be a sign that you’re gaining muscle mass.
4. You Recover Quicker From Workouts
If you used to be sore after every workout but now find that you recover more quickly, it means that your muscles are adapting and getting stronger. This is a good sign that you’re making progress toward your goals. One of the most obvious signs that you’re gaining muscle is if your muscles look visibly larger. This is particularly true if you’ve been working out consistently and eating a nutrient-rich diet
5. You See Visual Changes
If you notice changes in your appearance, such as more defined muscles or increased vascularity (the veins in your muscles becoming more visible), it’s likely due to an increase in muscle mass. However, keep in mind that visible changes might take longer to achieve than some of the other signs on this list.
6. Your Body Fat Percentage Is Decreasing
If you’re seeing a decrease in your body fat percentage, it’s likely that you’re also gaining muscle. This is because muscle tissue is denser than fat tissue, so even if your weight stays the same, you may look slimmer as you gain muscle and lose fat. To accurately track your body fat percentage, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional or use specialized equipment like calipers or a DEXA scan.
Conclusion
Are you looking for signs that indicate you’re gaining muscle mass? If so, pay attention to how your clothes fit, how much weight you can lift, and how quickly you recover from workouts. Additionally, keep an eye out for changes in your energy levels and appearance.
Remember that everyone is different and will gain muscle at different rates, so don’t compare yourself to others—just focus on making progress toward your own goals!
Also, take a look at the best legal supplements for muscle growth.
