The foundation of any successful fitness regimen is built upon healthy habits.

You’re not eating enough calories.

A surefire way tolose muscle massis not consuming enough energy (calories).

man overtraining, doing intense workout with dumbbells demonstrating bad fitness habits causing you to lose muscle mass

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“Significantly cutting calories combined with intensive cardio will lead to muscle loss over time,” says Meier.

You’re overtraining.

Additionally,reduced muscle glycogenlevels andmuscle weaknessare associated with overtraining, research shows.

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You’re not prioritizing sleep.

Sleep is likely the most powerful (yet most underrated) aspect of any health or fitness goal.

“Aim to get eight solid hours of shuteye each night.

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This will help prevent long-term fatigue and help with muscle growth if you work out consistently.”

You’re not consuming enough protein.

Your body consists ofroughly 20% protein; it’s found in all of your cells.

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“Muscle is fueled by protein, so proper recovery and muscle growth depends on it.”

Just confirm you’re strength training and getting your protein from whole food sources and high-quality protein powders.

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You’re doing too much cardio.

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While regular cardio exercise is fantastic for overall health, going overboard can cause muscle loss.

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