Activity Level advice needed

tomjf967
tomjf967 Posts: 3 Member
in Getting Started
I'm new to MFP. I am confused as to which activity level to select. I have a desk job and do not move around a lot during the day. I do, however, workout regularly doing both weights and cardio five times a week for at least an hour. Which activity level should I select?

Replies

  • malibu927
    malibu927 Posts: 17,562 Member
    Go with sedentary and log your exercise to give you more calories. MFP works differently than TDEE in that exercise is not included in their initial calculations. If after six weeks you're losing more than you think (outside of the initial water weight loss), then move up to lightly active.
  • sijomial
    sijomial Posts: 19,809 Member
    tomjf967 wrote: »
    I do, however, workout regularly doing both weights and cardio five times a week for at least an hour.

    This is irrelevant for your activity setting which is lifestyle and job only.
    Sedentary.
  • mamasmaltz3
    mamasmaltz3 Posts: 1,111 Member
    You could also manually change your calorie goal to straight TDEE which includes your daily activity. For example, I eat roughly, 2200 cals on off days and 2500 on days I'm more active.
  • mamasmaltz3
    mamasmaltz3 Posts: 1,111 Member
    mamasmaltz3 wrote: »
    You could also manually change your calorie goal to straight TDEE which includes your daily activity. For example, I eat roughly, 2200 cals on off days and 2500 on days I'm more active.

    Edited to add: then I don't log workouts.
  • LivingtheLeanDream
    LivingtheLeanDream Posts: 13,342 Member
    In the beginning its easier to keep it at sedentary and log your exercise..You can adjust that along the way as necessary :smile:
  • tomjf967
    tomjf967 Posts: 3 Member
    Thanks everyone for your help and advice. I think I will start with sedentary and see how it goes. Mamasmaltz3, can you explain how TDEE works? How do I determine TDEE for my goal?
  • CSARdiver
    CSARdiver Posts: 6,252 Member
    What is your goal - lose weight, gain muscle/endurance/strength?

    Sedentary is best for loss - this sets you daily activity. I also jockey a desk and just set a reminder to knock out some pushups, planks, and go for a walk every hour.

  • belinda_73
    belinda_73 Posts: 149 Member
    yeah, I have to hit the sedentary button even tho I hit the gym every day. but enter in your own macros. I don't like the MFP settings, the protein is too low and the carbs too high. they use the old fashion food pyramid logic.
  • tomjf967
    tomjf967 Posts: 3 Member
    My goal is to lose about 10 lbs without losing the muscle. Then maintain that weight.

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