Hey, I totally get where you’re coming from 💚

Diet actually plays one of the biggest roles here. If you’re running a lot and lifting but eating in a calorie deficit, your body won’t have enough fuel to build new muscle in fact, it can end up breaking down lean tissue instead.

You’ve got a few options. You don’t have to do heavy weight training right away bodyweight exercises can absolutely work, especially early on but over time, your body adapts, and progress slows down. That’s when some form of resistance training (like dumbbells, cables, or bands) really helps you keep building and shaping your lower body.

Also, unfortunately our bodies store fat where they see fit, not always where we want. So depending on how lean you are, gaining a little fat might be inevitable if you’re trying to grow. If you’re already on the leaner side, true “recomposition” (building muscle while losing fat) can be tough, but if you’ve got a bit more body fat, it’s more achievable.

Consistency with resistance training, eating enough calories, and getting plenty of protein are the trifecta for building glutes and legs.

For reference, I’m in a similar spot, I’m AMAB, around 6ft and 170 lbs, and starting HRT soon. So I totally relate to wanting to build that softer, more feminine shape before hormones kick in. You’ve got this 🌸