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Dear Dr. Dixon,

In the last year, I lost weight slowly (about 1 to 2 pounds per week) and reach my goal weight.  I have always exercised at least 5 days a week (this is pretty consistent).  I also journal what I eat each day, so I can closely monitor my serving sizes and food choices.  Here is a description of my problem: My previous exercise routine included some very light step aerobics and two runs on Sat & Sun of about 7.5 miles each.  Lately, my running times have been improving (around 65-68 minutes), and my aerobic exercise, to my dismay, was not really getting my heart range into my target zone of between 109 – 145.  So, I purchased an elliptical trainer, and now, based on my heart rate monitor, I am definitely exercising within my target heart rate zone.  My problem:  In the last two weeks I have gained five pounds!  I am not eating differently, only exercising more effectively.  Would you happen to know what might be causing this?  I am very upset about the gain.

Burgess