Coming from someone who has always been very athletic, working out helps more than you know. If you are doing a combination of both cardio and weights not only are you burning calories but you are gaining muscle. When I decided to gain weight I started decreasing my cardio slightly and incorporating more weights. I used to focus mostly on my shoulders, arms and back but have since then incorporated legs and butt and I have to say I feel so much better and am gaining more muscle and definition. The better I feel allows me to eat more and also helps me to go to the bathroom completely. So it all helps one another and so far the outcome has been me gaining 5 pounds and I am going to keep going because for the first time in a long time, I feel great! HOpe this helps and please keep me posted on your progress!