BMR - Total or Net

I know this is topic is discussed A LOT on here, but after reading all kinds of posts, I am looking for clarification. The consensus is don't eat below your BMR - I get that. My question is - is that net calories? My BMR is about 1600, so does that mean I should net at least that? Right now I have my calories set at 1800 (TDEE - 25%), so don't eat back exercise calories, which puts me at a net of 1300 - 1500, which is below BMR. Thanks.

Replies

  • lisajsund
    lisajsund Posts: 366 Member
    I don't use the TDEE method, which already includes your exercise calories.
    Yes, I would say a net. If your TDEE is set at 1800 calories, do not eat exercise calories back.
    I have my calorie goal set to lose 0.5 lb a week, at an active level, before exercise.
  • ladynocturne
    ladynocturne Posts: 865 Member
    Net.
  • erickirb
    erickirb Posts: 12,294 Member
    I know this is topic is discussed A LOT on here, but after reading all kinds of posts, I am looking for clarification. The consensus is don't eat below your BMR - I get that. My question is - is that net calories? My BMR is about 1600, so does that mean I should net at least that? Right now I have my calories set at 1800 (TDEE - 25%), so don't eat back exercise calories, which puts me at a net of 1300 - 1500, which is below BMR. Thanks.

    In theory it is net, but since you have a lot to lose it is okay to net under BMR. and days you don't workout you net above anyway. For the week what would your net be vs. BMR?
    In other words if you workout 4 days and net 1400 then net 1800 the other 3, that is pretty close to your BMR of 1600 and shouldn't worry.