Net calories and hiking

emilyc1892
emilyc1892 Posts: 11 Member
in Food and Nutrition
Yesterday I hiked 18 miles. The app I use to track the hike estimated I burned 1602 calories. MFP estimates 1,200 (walking, 3mph) or 2,270 (hiking,cross country).

Would you eat back all your calories for this? I aim to get 1400 net usually, but that would mean eating 2,600 even if I go by the minimum estimate. Yesterday I ate about 2,000 which was enough for me. Is there any way eating this little could be detrimental? I hike about once a week.

Replies

  • CarlydogsMom
    CarlydogsMom Posts: 645 Member
    I wouldn't focus so microscopically on this. If you hike 18 miles regularly (good hike by the way), then I'd figure out a plan to consume enough calories to keep your energy level up, stay hydrated, and not fall into the trap of eating an enormous meal at one time at the end of the day that is loaded with crap (so bring along enough good snacks to keep you going). If it's a one-time deal, just focus on how you feel--drink water, eat protein-based snacks with some carbs, and go with your instinct.

    If you used, by chance, one of those Map My Hike apps, I think they overestimate calories tremendously. I usually cut whatever it is they say in half, at least.Through other means, I have found that as a 145-lb, 5'10" woman, I burn about 65 - 70 calories per mile walking/hiking. I calculate everything from that foundation.

    When you hike alot of miles like that, it's a good opportunity to listen to your body and figure out what it needs rather than thinking you need to consume an extra X,000 calories.
  • marilandica
    marilandica Posts: 88 Member
    Once a week? Probably not. Plus, I'd say that MFP calorie burn estimate is high.
  • MinnieInMaine
    MinnieInMaine Posts: 6,400 Member
    MFP calorie burns are notoriously high so it's best to go with somewhere between 1/2 and 2/3rds of what it gives you for burns. I'd probably err on the side of caution and go with the 1200 calorie burn. You should try to eat back some of those calories but it doesn't have to happen the same day. So you're fine with having eating back only 600 and if you feel a bit peckish the next day or two, don't worry about going over by a couple hundred calories. It'll all average out in the end.

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