Hello, I have a burning question(s) when it comes to exercise and weight loss. I have heard reports that to lose weight, a 1200 calorie diet would be the minimum amount of calories you could take in and not start to become unhealthy. I am wanting to implement this regimen for maximum weight loss. However, I also love to exercise and usually will do about 40-70 minutes of intense cardiovascular exercise 6 X's /wk. This may include the elliptical machine, spinning, and/or running.

My question, is - am I hurting more than helping myself? Is the activity level considered within the calorie regimen, and therefore am I taking in too little? thereby reducing my metabolism in the long run?

I am 5'6/ 135 lbs.

Also, I am afraid that if I immediately drop to 1200 calories per day, when it is time for maintenance, I will have no where to go (calorie wise) and will have to stay @ 1200 (or below) for the rest of my life. Help!

Colleen Long

Don't drop that low. There are no baseline caloric intake guidelines to follow. We are all unique! Maintenance level caloric intake is usually around 16 calories per pound of bodyweight. I would use this as an estimated starting place and reduce by 20% for fat loss.

The cardio seems a little extreme. HIIT is a popular recommendation nowadays for fat loss, and I agree with it. Ditch the long duration, steady state cardio and throw in 2-3 HIIT sessions per week on non-weight training days.

That should do the trick, as long as your diet is in check. Remember, it is not only how many calories, it is where they are coming from and when you are eating them too.

I second that. 1200 is way too low for your activity level. 1200 is probably lower than your BMR. As mentioned, steady state cardio will only be effective for so long, once your body adapts, the effectiveness drops. Your spinning class seems like a good choice, as from what I have heard they alternate speeds and intensities during a single class. Sounds like you have a gym, maybe you should start on a weight training routine.

1200cals is what they give coma patients...you need more!

I second the notion to join a gym, decrease the steady state cardio,a nd start a good weight program.
diet, cardio (not the slow kind!) and weight training are the 3 components to building a wicked body, both wicked looking, and wickedly fit.

You should do weights too. Not just cardio.

If you get too low, you'll be tired and not have energy. You'll feel it when it's too low.

I have heard that too, the 1200 is the minimum to "not become unhealthy" but it is definitely not the way to go! Listen to the smart ones above. I found my daily caloric intake and it is approx 1900 minus 500 calories for weight loss. i am also 5'6" and weigh 130, so we are nearly the same. eat 6 healthy meals a day!