Running everyday ok?

I have not lost weight since January and I am so frustrated!!!  I'm trying to figure out what's going on with me.  I run 4-6 miles everyday...is that normal?  My MIL told me that my legs were looking stalky...so I guess I'm bulking up...I thought women don't bulk up?  I am so confused!

I am a cross country runner, so I am speaking from experience. It is fine to run everyday, as long as some days are easy "recovery" days. I know that it might be tempting to run harder and longer to burn more calories, but you are not allowing your body to recover (which is when the muscles grow).

A suggestion might be to cross-train a little, like lifting weights, swimming, or cycling.

One last tip: I don't know if this is an issue, but some runners overcompensate for their running when they eat. See if this is you.

some runners overcompensate for their running when they eat.  

That is so true!!!  I love to run and I run a lot and I could never figure out why I could not lose weight.  Guess what?  My calorie intake was so out of whack; I ate healthy foods, but way too much.   It was like a bit of a "feeding frenzy" after a long run or race.

Now that I am calorie counting, I really notice how much food my other running friends are eating after we run (and then I listen to them complain about the fact that they can't lose weight).  I have to say it was a real eye opener for me.

I'm having the same problem.  Ever since I increased my running and training for races, my appetite has really increased and my weight loss has screeched to a halt and I've even put on weight.  I find it's more of a struggle to lose these last 12 lbs. than it was to lose 75 lbs. last year.  I still have to calorie count to try to keep myself under control.

Also, your muscles are probably getting more defined in your legs as you run more.  I wouldn't doubt that you're losing fat and gaining muscle with all of that running.

I'd like to add that I tend not to lose weight, no matter how much I run, when I keep my calorie intake high.  Running lots makes you so hungry - the only way I can lose weight is when I keep close tabs on my calories.  Be careful not to eat too few calories, either, as that can hurt your energy, and tempt you to "skip runs".  I know when I am at a high intensity with lots of running, it is harder to lose weight and maintain the energy levels I need.

I'd like to repeat what tuffett said about recovery.  Be sure that you're only running your hardest about two times per week.  You use up your immediate glycogen stores on those runs, but it doesn't really help you tap into stored energy (i.e. fat) when your workout is at about 80%.  Slow your run down (can you comfortably hold a conversation?) and you will be at a better calorie burning speed.  Also, try replacing one or two of your runs with cycling, or swimming.  

Be sure to check some of the running magazine sites for better information, as well.  There's a lot of good ideas/tips on those sites.