Multiple Questions

kbooth

Okay, so I'm relatively new to MFP. I have been working out on my own since January and have multiple questions that I was hoping to get help with. I can't afford a gym membership right now, so I have had to rely on what I read on the internet or hear from other workout friends.

1. What type of HRM should I consider? I really can't spend a whole lot, but I think this would help get me off the plateau I'm currently on.

2. Would a Body Bugg be better than a HRM? I don't really know the difference between the two, but I've seen the Body Bugg's on Biggest Loser shows and hear they are really invaluable.

3. How many calories should I be eatting per day? I always try to stay at 1,200, but I'm usually starving by the end of the night. I am 5'1", 180 lbs., have a sedintary job and try to workout at least 3-4 times a week for an hour each.

Thanks for any help or insight you can provide. I really want to get re-motivated...I've come so far, but still have so far to go!

JLeeAlton

The HRM that alot of people talk about is the Polar F6.. which is the one I purchased. It's around $100.. but you can look on ebay they might be cheaper. Just make sure it is new and in box with the transmitter.

Never tried a Body Bugg.. no opinion there.

The site can help you set up a calorie intake per day. Just fill out the GOALS to your liking and it will tell you your calorie intake. You can find the GOALS on your home page at the top.

I am at 1200 and as far as feeling hungry just make sure you are eating fiber rich foods and protein and drink as much water as you can!!!

Chenoachem

1. You want a HRM that has a chest strap and you can enter in your personal information. Garmin and Polar the most preferable brands. However, there are other ones out there that would work fine. Since you workout alone at home you don't need to worry about one that is coded to prevent against interferance.

2. I don't know. Never used one.

3. If you are sticking with 1200 calories, at least eat your exercise calories. Going up for a day may "shock" your system and help loose more weight too.

Good Luck.

kgs0201

hi! Welcome to MFP! I've only been using it for a month or so but I absolutely love it! Like you, I'm not fond of the gym membership fee and so don't use it... but I just tried Jillian Michael's 30 day shred for the first time and it was amazing! Only 20 minutes long but I was sweating like crazy! I'll probably spend at least a week on Level 1 before I move up to Level 2. I also have done her No More Trouble Zones video.. it's INTENSE.. definitely better than any work out I would get at the gym!

For eating calories.. I've adjusted to 1200 after a month and its really all about WHAT you eat. I love turkey burgers!

heathercrist1

What does MFP say as far as calories? I'd say the 1200 sounds ok but you might want to try and consume more fiber to keep you fuller (fruits, veggies, and bulk food like oatmeal).

A bodybugg or http://www.bodymedia.com/ monitors a lot more than a HRM would...but they cost quite a bit more. I've been considering the body media device myself but it is around $250 with $9-12 in monthly fees for the online software.

mymelody_78

Hi,

Here is my input below:

1. I have the Polar FT4. I love it and have not had any problems with it. I heard the F6 was good but I heard that you can't change the battery yourself...with FT4 you can. It is about $100.

2. The Body Bugg I heard was amazing! It is something you wear all day and it tracks all of the calories that you burn. I think this is at least double the price and you need to pay a monthly fee to get the data from your Body Bugg into the computer. I am not completely sure so don't quote me on that. Maybe if you pay extra for the display it doesn't have to sync to a website?

3. We are pretty close in stats and I am at 1200 calories. I usually eat my workout calories also, which is why I got the HRM to make sure that I am not eating way over. I usually have a Crystal Light or Kellogg's K2O Protein water mix with breakfast so that I feel fuller during the day. I have tried to eat more veggies because those are filling and good for you. Also more grilled chicken instead of fattier meats.

I am doing the Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred and I love it! The other thing I have been doing is the Couch to 5K training. Both can be done without a gym membership.

I hope this helps!