I'd like to lose about 14 pounds, do I have to burn more calories than I eat?

[Anonymous]

I'm currently 5'6" and about 140 lbs. I'd like to lose another 14 lbs of fat and tone a little.
I'm confused though, I used to be heavier and I lost weight but I ate more calories than I burnt but I still lost weight?
So why do they say you need to burn more than you eat?
Also, if I go to the gym regularly how many calories should I aim to burn in one session if my daily calorie intake is around 1500 per day?

[Kkaos]

I think people get too obsessed with numbers. Forget about scales and calories. I just look in the mirror and see if I like what I'm seeing and if there's anything I'd to change. If you want to lose fat, just cut out processed foods, all the typical unhealthy foods. Drink a lot of water and do some cardio at least 3-4 times a week and do some weight training if you want to tighten up as well. It really it's a science, dietitians and all that will state all these percentages and numbers to make it sound more complicated than it actually is. Don't think you're losing enough fat, make your diet even more extreme, do even more cardio... it's really simple.

[Kkaos]

Blah.. It really isn't a science*

[Asker]

Okay, I guess this method has been successful for me in the past

[Anthony150]

Your body naturally burns a set amount of calories based on age, height, weight, and gender. This is known as your BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate).

I think the reason you are confused is because you were tracking calories burned through exercise, but weren't aware of your actual TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure). Your TDEE is your BMR + activity level. I suggest using an online calculator to determine how many calories you burn roughly in a day and set up a reasonable deficit to help you lose weight.

[Xfitchick]

You need to burn more than you use, which is roughly the same as what you eat. But instead of focussing on weight, focuss on muscle/fat ratio. 140 lbs for 5'6" is a very healthy and normal weight. Have yoiur body fat checked in the gym. 20-25% is normal for a standard female, Below 20 % is athletic and below 15% you will start looking like a ripped female.

[Xfitchick]

thanks

[HOAAH]

Eat more fruits and veggies, and try to eat lean meats. Don't do anything fried or sugary.

Exercise but don't over do it. Good luck