New to Lifting and Need Calorie Adjustment, if any, advice

WhiteRabbit1313

So, I've been at 1350 calories per day, because, according to Scoobysworkshop, I have a TDEE of 1609 calories for my activity level (desk job, very little exercise), which puts me at 16% if eating 1350 calories/day.

I haven't been losing any weight, so, I'm assuming I'm underestimating my calories, because, although I have food scales, etc., I'm not able to weigh everything, and I eat out a lot (for lunch; I cook at night). I eat mainly at Lebanese/Mediterranean restaurants, but some diners, too. I usually get green veggie sides and eat half of the entrée. So, they shouldn't be loaded with sodium, like restaurant chains. However, I'm guessing that they're adding extra calories via fat that I'm not accounting for, because I can't "see" it.

So, my next option is to lower my budget, even if I'm not technically eating 1350 (I must be eating more), OR stop (or limit) eating out (which isn't sustainable, as a lifestyle change, imo).

Now, I'm adding in Starting Strength every other day, as my weight lifting routine.

My question is: If you were me, and you wanted to lose weight and gain muscle, what would you tweak in my current routine? Even if it's something I'm currently unwilling to change, if I need to change it, I need to know that.

TIA

Edited for adding stats: 130 lbs., 5'2"

albayin

I don't have any better idea than you as I am stuggling with this too. I have been lifting weight for over a year now, following several routines, such as P90x, and ChaLean Extreme. I can definitely see my 6-pack and super toned arms but my weight wont budge no matter what I do, eating 1200, intermittent fasting, or eating 1500 or more...I added running as well but my scale is just super stubbon and my measurement doesnt go down either. I know everybody says I look like someone with body fat around18%, but I can't get over with the big number on my scale because I can't do more chin-up and push-up as those with lighter weight.

Anyone any suggestion?

WhiteRabbit1313

I don't have any better idea than you as I am stuggling with this too. I have been lifting weight for over a year now, following several routines, such as P90x, and ChaLean Extreme. I can definitely see my 6-pack and super toned arms but my weight wont budge no matter what I do, eating 1200, intermittent fasting, or eating 1500 or more...I added running as well but my scale is just super stubbon and my measurement doesnt go down either. I know everybody says I look like someone with body fat around18%, but I can't get over with the big number on my scale because I can't do more chin-up and push-up as those with lighter weight.

Anyone any suggestion?

Hey, if I looked like I was 18% BF, I'd happily weigh 200 lbs. LOL! You probably replaced fat with muscle, which is a great thing! Are you trying to get down to a lower BF%?

albayin

I don't have any better idea than you as I am stuggling with this too. I have been lifting weight for over a year now, following several routines, such as P90x, and ChaLean Extreme. I can definitely see my 6-pack and super toned arms but my weight wont budge no matter what I do, eating 1200, intermittent fasting, or eating 1500 or more...I added running as well but my scale is just super stubbon and my measurement doesnt go down either. I know everybody says I look like someone with body fat around18%, but I can't get over with the big number on my scale because I can't do more chin-up and push-up as those with lighter weight.

Anyone any suggestion?

Hey, if I looked like I was 18% BF, I'd happily weigh 200 lbs. LOL! You probably replaced fat with muscle, which is a great thing! Are you trying to get down to a lower BF%?

I am trying to get a lower weight on scale...and hopefully a little more less fat over all too since I still carry some fat around my thighs...I am pear shaped.

WhiteRabbit1313

I don't have any better idea than you as I am stuggling with this too. I have been lifting weight for over a year now, following several routines, such as P90x, and ChaLean Extreme. I can definitely see my 6-pack and super toned arms but my weight wont budge no matter what I do, eating 1200, intermittent fasting, or eating 1500 or more...I added running as well but my scale is just super stubbon and my measurement doesnt go down either. I know everybody says I look like someone with body fat around18%, but I can't get over with the big number on my scale because I can't do more chin-up and push-up as those with lighter weight.

Anyone any suggestion?

Hey, if I looked like I was 18% BF, I'd happily weigh 200 lbs. LOL! You probably replaced fat with muscle, which is a great thing! Are you trying to get down to a lower BF%?

I am trying to get a lower weight on scale...and hopefully a little more less fat over all too since I still carry some fat around my thighs...I am pear shaped.

Oh, I see. Yeah, my hips and thighs, as you can see, are my favorite places to store fat, too. Hopefully, someone can help us!!!