Weight gain - cause by quitting smoking or exercise routine?

[karlosmi]

I have been exercising 6 days a week for about the past 2 years. When I started I was at 286 and got down to the lowest of 199. I am 6'2" so I was pretty happy with breaking the 200 mark though wasn't that intent that I could or would maintain it. Most of the time for the past 6-9 mos have been between 204 and 207.

2 months ago I finally decided enough was enough and quit smoking. Through using the patch, gum etc for the first couple weeks I got through the addiction.

1 1/2 months ago I joined a Crossfit Box. I started CrossFit 3 days a week and have done 5 days a week for the past 3 weeks. On my off days, I do yoga stretching jogging biking whatever. After starting Crossfit and especially when I worked up to 5 days, I would have a significantly higher appetite, which is also the case when I have changed routines in the past. So when I feel this way and that it is caused by the increased activity level I believe its ok to eat larger portions/extra meals as long as its of the right foods.

I honestly have not weighed myself in the 2 months since I quit smoking. I weighed in today at 222, so 15 lbs above where my normal weight was when I was in my routine.

I have noticeable definition changes especially in the quads, back, and shoulders/delts in the month and a half of CrossFItting. I have never lifted as heavy as I have with CrossFit nor done any weighted squats - just body weight when it comes to lower body. (No deadlift, or any of the other olympic movements.)

My question is how much should I be concerned about the weight gain if there are noticeable improvements in definition. Once the body gets used to the new activities and my diet becomes more normal it will work out, or do I need to be concerned and cut the extra portions/meals out of the diet to return to maintaining my ideal/goal weight?

Thanks for your help

[BigRic]

You've gained muscle, congratulations.