While the number will be unique for you, most people can expect to gain between a half-pound to two pounds of muscle in a month with a targeted resistance training program and correct nutrition, usually including a surplus of calories. Gaining weight involves more than just adding muscle mass.
“With all of those things considered, the average man can gain about one to two pounds of muscle per month and the average woman up to one pound per month,” Jacobchick told us.
As a beginner, you can expect to gain about 1 to 2 pounds of muscle per month with a consistent and well-structured workout program and proper nutrition. This means that in three months, a realistic expectation would be about 3 to 6 pounds of muscle.
What is clear is that gaining muscle isn't a quick process: it takes long-term dedication and the right type of training to achieve over time. As a general guide, the most commonly quoted figures are: 1-2lbs of muscle per month for men. 0.5-1lb of muscle per month for women.
Rate of Muscle Gain: For most beginners, a realistic rate of muscle gain is about 1-2 pounds per month, especially if you are following a proper strength training program and nutrition plan. This means it could take approximately 2.5 to 5 months to gain 5 pounds of muscle.
Anybody (and I mean anybody) has the capacity to add five pounds of muscle to their frame. The timeline is relatively short for beginners. You can pack on the size, or get damn close, after just five weeks of training and eating for size. With just one month of exercise and solid nutrition, you'll know where you stand.
The result of using a mass gainer for one month can vary depending on factors like diet, exercise routine, and individual metabolism. Generally, you might notice increased muscle mass and strength, provided you follow a consistent workout regimen and consume enough calories.
“One pound of muscle is a lot less noticeable than you would think it is appearance-wise,” says Yu. You might not see a huge change beyond looking a little more toned, but you'll feel a change in your overall strength and agility, she notes.
“You can lift lighter weights, and as long as you lift them with a high degree of effort, they're as good as heavier weights in making you bigger,” he says. Using a home gym machine or even just your own body weight, like with push-ups or lunges, works.
Three months is enough for some people to get ripped — at least to a certain extent. You can lose up to 24lbs of fat in that time if you're starting from a higher weight or build up to 6 pounds of muscle.
Downtime between workouts (whether you're lifting, doing cardio or training for a sport) is when our bodies have a chance to actually build muscle. Strenuous workouts cause muscle breakdown, while rest allows our bodies to build it back up.
Noticeable Changes (Months 2-3): After two to three months of consistent training, you'll likely start seeing more significant muscle size and strength changes. At this time, many people notice that their muscles appear fuller and more defined.
Most beginners will see noticeable muscle growth within eight weeks, while more experienced lifters will see changes in three to four weeks. Most individuals gain one to two pounds of lean muscle per month with the right strength training and nutrition plan.
Muscle tissue burns more calories than fat tissue, even when you're resting. More muscle means your body uses more energy, making it easier to lose weight and keep it off. “Investing in your muscle mass is like investing your 401(k),” says Kate.
On average, most people expect noticeable muscle growth within four to six months of starting a strength training program. However, the exact timeline for building muscle can vary significantly depending on the factors highlighted above.
So even though you may be losing fat, you're gaining muscle. You might feel slimmer, even as the number on the scale rises. “The scale doesn't tell the entire story,” said exercise physiologist Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD. “Since muscle and fat take up different volume, they look very different on the body.”
Increase the intensity of your workouts instead of working out for long periods of time. Make sure you're getting enough calories and protein in your diet for muscle growth. Get plenty of sleep and give your muscles time for recovery. Try supplements for more strength, energy, and power, like creatine and HMB.
The Bottom Line
It is thus important to add a daily mass gainer shake on top of your protein and calorie intake requirements, especially for enhanced muscle building. However, balance is the key here – avoid replacing whole foods with mass gainers and do not overdo it with the calorie intake.
If your primary goal is to build solid muscle mass and redefine body composition quickly, mass gainers would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a "hard-gainer" (find it difficult to gain weight or muscles) then creatine may be a good choice for you.