Seems to be working...

blainepoe
blainepoe Posts: 27 Member
I started this journey Dec 9. I started with the MFP system and have had some ups and downs and a lot of second guessing about my approach. I think I have finally settled into a nice EM2WL lifestyle. I got a pretty solid handle on my TDEE using the fitbit app with my on board iPhone 5s tracker. It puts me around 3250 cal/day. I've been eating 2600-2700 per day on average. I have lost about a pound a week over the course of my 15 weeks (non-linear loss). I am confident this is mostly body fat as I strength train and watch my protein. Strength and athleticism is very important to me as I do a lot of self-defense training. I don't care how long it takes as long as it's sustainable and gets me to my destination. The before pictures are a year or two old.

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I have energy. I'm not hungry. I'm making progress. I believe in this system.

Replies

  • heybales
    heybales Posts: 18,842 Member
    Congrats, and great use of available tools.

    I'm sure it's all fat, no problem there with strength training and high enough protein.

    Curious on use of Fitbit?
    Do you have to log your lifting in MFP, or just take the Fitbit underestimate?

    How has the TDEE changed over time?
    Like has it come down despite doing same activities, or do you move more with lighter weight to make up for it?
  • AnitraSoto
    AnitraSoto Posts: 725 Member
    Oh my that is FABulous!! Congrats on finding a maintainable lifestyle - your transformation so far is amazing - your face looks like a totally different person - well done you!!! A

    Awesome post - thank you for taking the time to share your success, and PLEASE make sure you keep us posted on your future progress!!
  • blainepoe
    blainepoe Posts: 27 Member
    Honestly figuring out how many calories I burn in a given Krav Maga class, lifting, or a day walking around on the range (quarry gravel/elevation changes) is about impossible. I ballpark it conservatively and focus more on my overall activity. I've used your spreadsheet as well to tweak things so thanks for that.

    As far as TDEE I have not noticed a huge change in this short time period, but I do keep my fitbit weight updated. There are so many variables that I am trying to focus on 4 week windows and adjust numbers accordingly rather than obsess over the daily numbers. That's one of the reasons I like the TDEE method better. I don't have to obsess over every burned calorie. If I stop progressing. I'll make some changes and reassess.
  • jbnl1991
    jbnl1991 Posts: 149
    You look great! Big difference in your face! Thank you so much for sharing. It reaffirms my belief in and commitment to this program. This is a slow process and we all need encouragement now and then. Keep the up the great work!
  • 31prvrbs
    31prvrbs Posts: 687 Member
    Love this!! And your attitude!

    That's exactly why it's working, lol.

    Some of us get so wrapped up in the numbers and trying to force linear progress that we take much longer than you have to find our stride. We actually make things take longer from stressing obsessively about exact specifics. You're doing amazing. Very inspiring example of trusting the process ;)

    I never get to make it on the forums anymore, so very glad I popped in and saw this!

    Can't wait to hear more updates. :)


    ~ Kiki
  • jaeone
    jaeone Posts: 649 Member
    Wow! You're doing awesome! I'll be following your progress!
  • blainepoe
    blainepoe Posts: 27 Member
    Thank you all for the kind words. I don't know why people get in such a hurry to drop weight. I'm in it for the long haul so rate of loss is insignificant compared to long term total loss and maintenance...not to mention I have enough calories to actually enjoy my meals.
  • AnitraSoto
    AnitraSoto Posts: 725 Member
    Thank you all for the kind words. I don't know why people get in such a hurry to drop weight. I'm in it for the long haul so rate of loss is insignificant compared to long term total loss and maintenance...not to mention I have enough calories to actually enjoy my meals.

    Love your attitude! So true that the process works better when you have that "long term" mentality. Just take it slow and steady and tweak as you need to along the way...