Inconsistency between calorie counter

Marthia

Hi, is it just me or does the calorie counter on MFP give you way too many calories. I have recorded my workout summary and it doesn’t match up. I have started changing the calories to reflect my workout summary which has reduced the number of calories I am allowed for the day…so easy to over eat.

imadyer

I have definitely noticed this! When I've used a stationary bike or elliptical at the Y, the calories burned as displayed by the machine (into which I have entered my weight) are always SIGNIFICANTLY higher on MFP, often by 200-300 calories. I've just been recording the lower amount from the gym to be safe. But when it comes to hiking and such, there's nothing to compare MFP's calorie burn to. I guess I'll have to break down and get a calorie counter watch.

Jack1daniel2

Does anyone know how to calculate your calories for when you use the wii or on wii dance, there's a site for zumber I think but could do with help for what to put down for the wii

jasonp_ritzert

There have also been studies out that show that cardio equipment over-estimate the amount of calories burned because they can only take into account age and weight for some, not height, sex, etc. Most machines you enter a weight and for me I'm 6'2'', 215 lbs, pretty solid guy (approx 15% body fat), but there will be a difference in the calories burned for me at 215 than say a woman that's 5'4'' at 215 lbs. I was always told to enter in 20% less body weight and that will give you a better idea of the actual calories burned.

jaz050465

A heart rate monitor is more accurate.

Healthydiner65

Get a Heart Rate Monitor and use it whenever you workout. It is the most accurate way to see calories burned. I have a Polar FT7 and it works great.

fit4lifeUcan2

I have definitely noticed this! When I've used a stationary bike or elliptical at the Y, the calories burned as displayed by the machine (into which I have entered my weight) are always SIGNIFICANTLY higher on MFP, often by 200-300 calories. I've just been recording the lower amount from the gym to be safe. But when it comes to hiking and such, there's nothing to compare MFP's calorie burn to. I guess I'll have to break down and get a calorie counter watch.

I have news for you. Those calorie counters on the machines are way off as well.

AngelaKelly02

I don't trust mfp either, I went and bought a heart rate monitor, I'm hoping it's a little more accurate.

Candice_AZ

http://www.polarusa.com/us-en/products/improve_fitness/fitness_crosstraining/FT40/
This is one of the best inventions ever. Much more accurate

imadyer

I have definitely noticed this! When I've used a stationary bike or elliptical at the Y, the calories burned as displayed by the machine (into which I have entered my weight) are always SIGNIFICANTLY higher on MFP, often by 200-300 calories. I've just been recording the lower amount from the gym to be safe. But when it comes to hiking and such, there's nothing to compare MFP's calorie burn to. I guess I'll have to break down and get a calorie counter watch.

I have news for you. Those calorie counters on the machines are way off as well.

Oops! I meant to say that I record the lower amount from MFP, not the gym. I am definitely getting the calorie counter.

imadyer

I have definitely noticed this! When I've used a stationary bike or elliptical at the Y, the calories burned as displayed by the machine (into which I have entered my weight) are always SIGNIFICANTLY higher on MFP, often by 200-300 calories. I've just been recording the lower amount from the gym to be safe. But when it comes to hiking and such, there's nothing to compare MFP's calorie burn to. I guess I'll have to break down and get a calorie counter watch.

I have news for you. Those calorie counters on the machines are way off as well.

Oops! I meant to say that I record the lower amount from MFP, not the gym. I am definitely getting the calorie counter.

Aargh! wrong again. In any case, I record the lower amount to be safe.