New to MFP, help with starting up!

missgabriel

Hello there. I'd like to begin by saying I'm a MESS. I'm under five feet, over 200lbs. I'm at the point where I'm ready to stop making excuses and shred the weight. I need help with starting. Every person I've spoken with has given me a different set of rules for weight loss and I'd like some fresh input on it.

I know I'm capable of losing weight. I've done it before numerous times but never kept it off. So here's some questions I'd like to start off with;

1. How much cardio? (Per week and for how long)

2. Is 1200 calories a day enough if I'm burning off almost 200 with my cardio?

3. How crucial is weight work in the beginning and what sorts of weight work can I do at home?

4. I own Turbo Jam, is it effective?

5. Any other advice you can offer. I find myself to be fatigued a lot and unmotivated

amnsetie

People will disagree with me but these are my answers
1 Cardio every second day, weights every other day.
2 no, you need more. set your goal at 1 pound per week and eat back half to 3/4 of your exercise cals - fuel the engine
3 it's only crucial if you want to look toned when you finish. so do some, the sooner you start the stronger you will get.
4 i don't own it, cardio is good but be careful if any high impact work hurts, if so go easier on that bit.
5 you may be fatigued cos you are not fueling the engine, see question 2 or because you are carrying too much body weight. so losing weight will help with this
try to eat fresh healthy foods from all food groups, too many carbs can make you tired but don't cut them completely
balance balance balance

melaniecheeks

Weight loss will mostly result from diet, so concentrate on that primarily, rather than worrying too much about exercise. Any exercise is good - find one you enjoy and will stick to.

missgabriel

I'm starting a new job soon, and to walk there is about 56 minutes (about 4.5 km, 2.8 mile) is that a good start for getting in general exercise each day?

melaniecheeks

That's a great start! Nice and easy, and you have no excuses not to do it!

meggers123

That's a great start! Nice and easy, and you have no excuses not to do it!

agreed. Start with what you know you can stick with. This is a permanant change- not a diet. You can do it!

zealousmissjj_wechange

1. How much cardio? (Per week and for how long)
That's different for everyone honey. I try to work out at least 3x a week for an hour in total (cardio + lifting weights). The both combined seem to work for me! Try to push yourself, but not to the limits of injury. Start off easy and build up from there.

2. Is 1200 calories a day enough if I'm burning off almost 200 with my cardio?
1200 calories is an estimate MFP gives you. I've been sticking with it. Do however eat back the amount of calories burnt. Focus on your weekly goal rather than your daily goal. Also, try to stay under the amount of fat, sugar and sodium, but above protein (and try to reach your fiber goal). Also, watch your sodium intake! It makes you retain water.

3. How crucial is weight work in the beginning and what sorts of weight work can I do at home?
Buy a set of dumbells. At first you may feel a little ridiculous (I did) but it works wonders and I do them in front of the TV. Awesome and it makes you toned! Also try squats, lunges and planks. Google them if you don't kow what they are!

4. I own Turbo Jam, is it effective?
I have no idea what that is

5. Any other advice you can offer. I find myself to be fatigued a lot and unmotivated
I used to be very fatigued too. Once I started to do some seriuous cardio and lifting (5-6 times a week) I started to feel more energised. I'm now at the point that if I don't run (I just started running!) for two days I go absolutely crazy!! I never though I could run but it's amazing what your body is capable of.

But listen carefully honey; the key is always PATIENCE. I should take my own advice because I want results to quickly all the time. It takes time to gain weight and feel lethargic, and it takes time to lose it and build up your fitness too! So keep going even if you think the scale isnt moving.

Last advice; open your diary and keep supportive friends around! They'll help you and you can learn a lot from them! X!!