How long does it take to boost your metabolism?

1200 was too few for me. I am 5'4" and started out at 165lbs. I had to bump it to 1400-1500 plus exercise calories to lose weight. 1200 really isn't appropriate for someone who only has 30 or less to lose.

It really shouldn't take more than a few weeks for your metabolism to catch on, but I'm no expert in that area. But what are you doing as far as workouts? (Frequency, duration and intensity) Do you use a HRM to track your calories burned or are you relying on the database? Are you getting enough protein and healthy fat in your diet? And how are you about drinking water? All of these will also play a factor in your metabolism and weight loss.

You could try varying the amount of calories you eat every few days, but never below 1200. Make sure you are accurately counting your calories...and weighing your food is better than measuring it.

On the exercise front, if you're not doing strength training, start. Weight machines are good, loose weights (dumbells, etc) are better in that they engage smaller muscles and your core more, BUT, don't try them if you haven't had anyone show you proper form!! Strength training builds muscle, which in turn boosts metabolism. Just don't work the same muscle group two days in a row. They need a day of rest in between the workouts.

Regarding cardio, try mixing up intervals going medium fast for a minute or 2, then fast for a minute or 2, then super fast for a minute or two, and keep chaning it up for 30-40 minutes. Then do a couple days a week where you are working on endurance....say, power walk at 4 to 5 mph for 30-45 minutes. Always remember to warm up and cool down before and after. This all keeps your body guessing what comes next and makes it work hard every workout.

Change out your workout routine every few weeks.

Most importantly, don't forget to take a day or two off a week to REST! Your muscles will need it.

That's all I got

I dont think you should weight yourself all the time once a week in the am is plenty.