Hi all,
Just going through a very very difficult and stressful time in my life at the moment, one where i'm under constant major stress.

Understanding that as such my cortisol levels would be quite high, just wanted to ask others opinions about how much stress can impact muscle growth and body comp goals in general. I seem to have stalled somewhat.

I'm still working out hard, trying to maintain good dietry practices etc....infact training is a great focus during this time.

Any knowledge or relevant articles people might able to refer me to appreciated.

Cheers

Seb

Speaking from experience, stress can certainly have a negative effect on your physique goals. Directly (as you noted; cortisol), but also indirectly. Lack of sleep is my major roadblock, and I attribute some of my sleep issues with stress.

On the other hand, training definitely has a positive effect on stress as well, for me anyway. Getting in there and trying to push myself and beat last week's weight or reps really makes me feel better. :)

I would recommend you continue training as I feel it can help with your new stresses. But if "life is getting in the way" there's nothing wrong with putting a very structured and precise diet on the backburner for now. Eat with portion rules, make smart choices, try to have at least 4 smaller meals a day (instead of 2-3 big meals), etc. but leave calorie and gram counting out of the picture for a month or so until things cool off. Put together a weightlifting plan you can live with during this time but do keep training if possible, even if that means only 2 full-body workouts per week.

Good luck and I hope things get better soon.

I remember someone posting that the body can't really tell the difference between the stress of training, the stress of life, and the stress of fighting cravings. So I don't feel too bad if my diet slips while I'm stressed out for a day or two. At the same time, I always try to address the cause of the stress, and also keep training. If I miss a workout it adds to my stress!

I really hope you can hang in there and make it through this tough time. I think almost everyone can relate to going through really tough times, and I wish you nothing but the best.

Thanks for the advice/comments 1Fast & Iceweasel I'm sure things will eventually get better....I sure will keep training...The other day i worked legs/shoulders and it was the first time in days i felt focussed and happier, so I think my problem will be staying out of the Gym! :)

Cheers

Seb