Exercise Vs. Dieting

JoshuaC30

I just want to have a better understanding of what the difference between the two are.

Why do we exercise when we diet?
Can you be successful only doing one, or re both necessary?

I feel like to lose weight you need to have a controlled diet. You need to know what you're eating. But I don't understand how cardio helps me lose weight? Could I not just eat less to make up for not doing cardio?

I understand doing strength exercises causes you to burn more calories over time (muscle repair) also muscle requires more energy to maintain.

Ortax

Diet is the most important factor in weight loss. You can lose fat through diet alone. Exercise can help.

Cardio increases your calorie deficit, so you can eat more. And yes, you can just eat even less instead of doing cardio.

confidentlyfit

Yes, a lot of people are successful losing weight just by watching their diet- exercise is not necessary. Though for people who have trouble eating at a deficit, cardio allows you to eat more while maintaining the same deficit so for some, it's preferable.

I also find that a lot of people who lose weight, though without any sort of exercise, complain about the whole 'skinny-fat' thing. Exercise= good for maintaining muscle mass while you lose fat, which usually gives people a better physique once they lose the weight, though not contributing directly.

Just my 2 cents.

Calliope610

I like to eat more than 1400 calories a day. Exercise allows me an extra 300-700 calories each day, depending on my workout. I started exercising for that reason, to earn more calories. Now I exercise because I love learning what my body is capable of doing, both in strength and endurance.

Unknown

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Alissakae

I think both are necessary to feel great while losing weight. I've done WW before, just counting "points" and lost weight but didn't feel that good. Since doing MFP and working up a sweat every single day I feel really good and have had a few people comment that I have a "glow" now. I don't love cardio but I'll keep doing it for all the health (and "glowing") advantages.

Joebob8

I've experimented with focusing solely on diet and focusing solely on exercise. I find that combining the two works best because (a) I can play with a somewhat larger deficit and (b) exercising keeps my appetite in check. I don't have the urge to pig out when my serotonin levels are high and I'm motivated to feel fit and healthy.