Eating more calories than burning...

First off, I want to apologize if I'm bringing up a topic that's been repeated like 236589652 times.

If you read this and can find/know a similar topic, feel free to tell me and I'll just refer to that.

Now, I just started working out again. I go to the gym 2-3 times a week and play softball on the weekends.

Because I probably don't burn as many calories as I eat, does this mean I won't lose weight?

Or does this just mean a slower rate of weight loss?

If I eat right, the fat won't accumulate and I'll burn off old fat stored? And this will lead to a more toned look and less lumpy/bulgy?

Help!

Re: Eating more calories than burning...

You have to create a calorie deficit to lose weight.

Re: Eating more calories than burning...

First of all keep in mind the only calories you are burning are not in the gym or playing sports. Just living in general burns up calories (breathing, walking, sleeping, etc). In order to function you need calories.

Everyone has a Resting Metabolic Rate. This is the amount of calories you body needs to live, to perform the life functions, etc. If you want to lose weight you need to eat eat less or burn off more calories than your RMR. There are calculators online- they will usually never tell you the same thing. For example, I have read that for my height, weight, and age I should be eating anywhere from 1200-1450 calories a day.

A calorie deficiency of 500 calories per day generally adds up to 1-2lbs weight loss per week.

The makeup of those calories is also essentials. Since I am on Weight Watchers, I follow a lowfat&carb, high fier&protein diet. However, there are a few girls on here who count the macronutrients (god bless them!)


As far as rate of weight loss- you want a slow rate (well at least you don't want to lose 5lbs a week!) The best way to keep weight off to lose 1/2lb- 2lbs per week.

As far toning- there are certain foods (PROTEIN!!) that help build muscle (especially when you eat them at the right times!!). When it comes to toning and fat burn keep this in mind- you can work on toning a certain area but you can't spot reduce!! You just can't control where you lose fat. It usually comes off in the most inconvient spots at first (your boobs!) and the places you want to lose it (belly, thighs for me at least) is last. It varies from person to person.

Bottom line-

find out how many calories you should eat per day
even better, find out what those calories should consist of (% of macronutrients)
eat less, move more.
body weight excercises are great for toning.

Message edited 9/9/2011 12:06:03 PM.

Re: Eating more calories than burning...

Thanks so much Colleen!! I was hoping you'd respond!