Losing weight on maintenance?

kirabob

I started eating at maintenance this week, and planned on only staying here a week or two for a 'diet break' before going back to cutting. Somehow I have actually lost 2 pounds this week, though - is this an indication that the level I *think* is maintenance is actually too low, and I'm just getting to a better cut level? Or is it too early to tell? There isn't anything else going on that would explain the weight loss (not TOM, still lifting heavy, etc.). I'm not complaining, by any means, just curious about what this means for my intake.

Thank you!

aliciab307

I would think that your assumed tdee isnt your tdee

kirabob

That's what I'm thinking.

Anyone willing to help me get a better number?

5' 4"
161.5 lbs
112 LBM
39 female

I do Stronglifts 3x a week, for about 3.30 hours total. I"m starting my 6th week today.
I try to fit in at least 45 minutes of HIIT a week, usually in 15 minute bursts after SL. I try to get to one hip-hop or Zumba class a week, but it doesn't always fit in my schedule.
I have a toddler, so sitting down isn't something I do. Ever.
According to Heybales spreadsheet, I end up with a TDEE of 2397, but I'm not sure I'm recording my activity properly - it varies a lot week to week (on everything but the lifting). Plus it's gardening season, so I'm spending a lot of time digging and moving rocks around - but again, not the same amount every week.

And, if I'm losing at this level, and feeling full and satisfied (I'm actually having trouble hitting my calorie mark without eating ice cream ), should I even push to find my TDEE?

Thank you!

colleen3115

Do you weigh daily/weekly? Was your weigh in on a valid weigh in day? Day after a rest day, not still sore from lifting with normal sodium intake? If your weigh ins meet those requirements and you still lost 2 pounds you should probably hang out at that level for awhile and see what happens.

I know, for me, this last week I have been more active with yard work and such. I wear a fitbit so it helps me quantify the increase in activity but if the increased activity doesn't continue then the increased calorie burn won't either.

aliciab307

If activity varies that much it can be hard to find true tdee. But I know people become more active with warner days so maybe you could increase your tdee by 100/200 calories for 2/3 weeks and see what results they yield. Thats if you're interested in finding your tdee. If you're going back to a cut in a few day I'd suggest just eating 100-200 calories more and you should still lose weight

kirabob

It was my weigh in day - so after a rest day, good sodium/water intake the day before - and it's held for two days. I like the notion of increasing by 100 a day for a week, then reevaluating. Thank you!