Really confused over activity levels

hanwyz

Hey,
So I've been trying to switch to TDEE-20% for a couple of weeks now, but I have no clue whatsoever over what my activity levels count as. My new routine (that I am starting today) is:
Monday - 30DS + C25K + Pilates
Tuesday - 30DS + Weights + Pilates
Wednesday - 30DS +C25K + Pilates
Thursday - 30DS +Weights + Pilates
Friday - Pilates
Saturday - 30DS + C25K + Pilates
Sunday - 30DS + Weights + Pilates

Would this count a light or moderate exercise? Im only using 2-4kg weights currently and my running speed today averaged 12 minute mile (5.5mph). I do (well try to do) a 50 minute Pilates DVD every evening to help stretch and relax. Any ideas? (Not trying to wangle some more calories, honest )

helenrosemay

I wouldn't count that as light or moderate. Count it as 7 days a week, or whatever the calculator you're using says is the most activity.

Francl27

I'd say moderate at least, but I'm clueless about how many calories pilates burn.

hanwyz

Pilates is a fairly low calorie burn exercise - is better for strength and flexibility, however, according to mfp it burns around 120 calories in 50 minutes. Compared to the 260 odd for half and hours run/30DS...
I will up my calories as if I'm moderately active and then if I do anything extra I will log those as exercise calories. Can't really put very active as when I'm not exercising, I'm basically sedentary.
My weight has shot up these last couple of days, so hoping that's just water weight from more intensive exercise... I mean really, a kilo nearly overnight?????
Thanks for the help

togmo

That is definitely more exercise than light and it would definitely be more than moderate too, most people underestimate their level of activity which you have done. What you are doing on a day to day basis is pretty seriously strenuous stuff. Even if you have a desk job and drive to and from your work and lounge around all weekend (outside your workouts) I would still think that would put you somewhere around the strenuous range.

My favourite calorie counter is scoobys and when you input in your activity level I would probably model it as 5-6hrs a week of strenuous exercise (although even the one higher could be applicable for you) because doing weights, doing a 30 day shred and your couch to 5k are all considered strenuous, probably on the higher end of strenuous too! You definitely don't want to under eat much below your TDEE when you are doing that sort of level of activity either. You will still notice a marked difference in your body undertaking these sorts of activities. Good luck!

http://scoobysworkshop.com/calorie-calculator/