Quick Question on TDEE and MFP

CarynMacD

Stats:

Female
Age: 45
Height: 5'4.5"
CW: 164.6
Fat: 28% (I think - is this the same as the BMI calculation)

GW: 132

Entered my numbers on IIFYM using Couch Potato as daily activity and got some numbers

Entered my numbers on IIFYM using Exercise 3 x / Week and got some numbers

My question:

Would it be appropriate to use the "Couch Potato" numbers as my min calorie intake and then eat back the calories I expend doing exercise, or, should I just stick to the numbers on the "exercise 3 x / week" and not eat back calories?

If I eat back calories, should I use the BMR numbers?

Thanks

ETA: Lifting 3 x / week and 2 days light cardio

Ready2Rock206

I would just use the numbers with exercise and not eat back calories as those numbers are meant to be used rather than trying to mix and match programs. That usually never turns out as well.

TeaBea

I would just use the numbers with exercise and not eat back calories as those numbers are meant to be used rather than trying to mix and match programs. That usually never turns out as well.

This!^

Lots of users here with TDEE and exercise included.

The only reason to use it without exercise is if your exercise is inconsistent.

CarynMacD

Thanks so much. This is a great help. Been messing with my numbers all week!

On my non-exercise days, would I then use the "couch potato" number or just carry on with the "including exercise" number?

erickirb

Fat: 28% (I think - is this the same as the BMI calculation)

No, they are not the same at all. BMI is just a function of height and weight and does not take into account amount of fat or lean mass. BF% is what the calculator asks for, which could be much higher or lower than BMI depending on fat and muscle mass.

CarynMacD

Fat: 28% (I think - is this the same as the BMI calculation)

No, they are not the same at all. BMI is just a function of height and weight and does not take into account amount of fat or lean mass. BF% is what the calculator asks for, which could be much higher or lower than BMI depending on fat and muscle mass.

Mmmm I suspected that.......... Will have to get my fat % checked.

oneloopygirl

I would just use the numbers with exercise and not eat back calories as those numbers are meant to be used rather than trying to mix and match programs. That usually never turns out as well.

This!^

Lots of users here with TDEE and exercise included.

The only reason to use it without exercise is if your exercise is inconsistent.

Agree with both...

and just as an extra note... Body fat % and BMI are not the same. An example - A bodybuilder or athlete with a lot of muscle can actually have a BMI outside of healthy, but a very low body fat %. BMI is driven solely on height and weight does not take into account actual body type, muscularity (or lack of), where you carry your weight/fat, etc.

Ready2Rock206

Thanks so much. This is a great help. Been messing with my numbers all week!

On my non-exercise days, would I then use the "couch potato" number or just carry on with the "including exercise" number?

Nope - eat the same amount every day.

CarynMacD

Thanks eveyone.... I think I've got it!