Yeah, I've been going to the gym for a year and saw no improvement in my fitness. A weightlifting class would leave me in agony (and unable to exercise) for a week. All those lunges left me in pain every time I tried to stand or sit down -- not to mention stairs.

Now I'm doing much better.

Personally, I attribute it to increased protein. I think that before, on my controlled-calorie diets, I just didn't consume enough protein to help my muscles repair themselves after a strenuouns workout.

Just my theory, based on the fact that I'm eating more protein than ever before -- but I honestly have no idea for sure what's REALLY happening.