weight loss goals

morenita71

Hi

I'm wondering what goal weight to set myself. When I started this I was going to see what I looked like at 140lbs (and within healthy BMI range). Once I got there I thought let me lose a little bit more so now am at 133 (and my BMI is just under 24). I've dropped from 14 to 10(UK) - I think I need to lose a few more lbs to be completely comfortable in non-vanity size 10s but might also work with a bit of toning to stomach.

So now I'm wondering whether I keep going to a size 8 (although I have no budget for any more new clothes!) or do I set it by BMI of 22? To be honest I don't really see the weight loss on myself although I know it's happened and I wonder whether I'll notice it if I lose a bit more.

So how did you decide? Was it your ideal weight when you were younger and in your prime! Clothes sizes? Please advise!

appleseeds

Rather than going by your BMI, find out your body fat percentage and use that to choose a goal. Your BMI could be thrown too far out of whack depending on your body type.

morenita71

how do you find out your body fat percentage?? I should probably know the answer but don't I'm afraid...

appleseeds

I have scales that work it out, they are said to be a bit inaccurate, but when I had my health check at the gym, that scales are only 1% higher then the trainer told me I was at.
Other wise you can try using an online calculator, but I couldnt recommend one. I just did an online search and this website
http://www.healthstatus.com/calculate/body-fat-percentage-calculator
gives two answers from different formulas -
the first formula was OVER by 6% and the second was UNDER by 10%
So unless someone links you to a better site :S

I have a fair amount of muscle though. I know a lot of people who weight less then me but are much larger - calculators never work for me

MrsSWW

How tall are you, M?

When I met MrWW I weighed 114lbs, I'm 5'2", and I ate and drank whatever I wanted, BUT I had a very active job. So I'd say 20 years ago that was my fighting weight!

I'd say now that I would be delighted with 126lbs but I suppose wont really know until I get there... I'd certainly work on the toning more than on the scales if you are already a 10, that way you'll get the comfort fit but not be too worried about numbers on the scales :flowerforyou:

morenita71

not very - 5 ft 3. But I have quite prominent muscles on legs, butt and arms - under a layer of fat of course...(and broad shoulders!)

MrsSWW

I'd say then you're quite close to what you want to be, perhaps another 5 or 6 pounds to give you some leeway for your fabulous eating and drinking weekends, but work on the toning definitely

Usbornegal

I'd agree with getting a fitness test with a trainer to find your number. When I did mine, it was surprising that my number was actually a lot higher than I thought it should be due to the amount of muscle I have. So at 5'7" I should be 180. I feel that is very doable and will be a great 'fit' weight for me, but it has nothing to do with my BMI number.