Decreasing body fat...cardio, weights, or both?

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Lisa1971
Lisa1971 Posts: 3,069 Member
My body fat is slowly going up and I'm NOT happy about it. What's the most effective way to get it down fast? Cardio, weights, or both? I only have about 45 mins in the morning and need to know what is the best way to decrease body fat.

Thanks!

Replies

  • tabinmaine
    tabinmaine Posts: 965 Member
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    weights weights weights, one that are heavy for you..... and eat at a 10-20% cut off from your TDEE. There are many TDEE calculators on line.... try one :)
  • chimp517
    chimp517 Posts: 185 Member
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    caloric deficit is what changes body fat
  • TooLeftFeet
    TooLeftFeet Posts: 139 Member
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    because I'm ignorant...wouldn't calorie deficit cause weight loss and not necessarily muscle gain? I mean it--its a question of ignorance (mine)
  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
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    There is no fast. Accept that now or you'll end up disappointed.


    Reducing body fat = losing weight + retaining muscle
    Losing weight = calorie deficit
    Retaining muscle = heavy lifting + sufficient protein

    So if A = B = C...

    Reducing body fat = calorie deficit + heavy lifting + sufficient protein intake

    Basically, maintain a reasonably calorie deficit, lift heavy (full body), and be sure to get enough protein.
  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
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    because I'm ignorant...wouldn't calorie deficit cause weight loss and not necessarily muscle gain? I mean it--its a question of ignorance (mine)

    Yes. Weight loss and muscle gain are, for 99% of people, mutually exclusive.
  • ModoVincere
    ModoVincere Posts: 530 Member
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    both.
  • Lisa1971
    Lisa1971 Posts: 3,069 Member
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  • mmapags
    mmapags Posts: 8,934 Member
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    There is no fast. Accept that now or you'll end up disappointed.


    Reducing body fat = losing weight + retaining muscle
    Losing weight = calorie deficit
    Retaining muscle = heavy lifting + sufficient protein

    So if A = B = C...

    Reducing body fat = calorie deficit + heavy lifting + sufficient protein intake

    Basically, maintain a reasonably calorie deficit, lift heavy (full body), and be sure to get enough protein.

    ^^^This! A little cardio too is good. I do both with a priority on the weight training for maintianing LBM.
  • 3laine75
    3laine75 Posts: 3,070 Member
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    Both + calorie deficit
  • mom2kpr
    mom2kpr Posts: 348 Member
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    Since you only have 45 min. try circuit training. If you workout at a gym, check w/trainers. Generally you alternate between cardio & weights (not sure on the best length for each - I'm new at this too). If you work out at home invest in a set of weights & a jump rope or step (for step aerobics) - or if you have stairs in your home you could use those. I'm sure there are DVD's for this kind of workout too. Good luck!
    Personally I do 30 - 50 min cardio + 30 min weight training & it seems to be working. When I am short on time I usually just do cardio or a 30 min circuit (my gym - Planet Fitness - has a circuit course).