Ralph4445

Quick question. If the goal is to get lean. If I eat total calories under 1000 calories and ride a recumbent bike 5 times a week 30 miles each ride make a 60 year old lean or will weight lifting be required? Thanks

PeteHski

I think you will struggle to do anything on less than 1000 calories per day!

Ralph4445

I started riding September 4th. 2-3 miles a day gradually up. I started 235 pounds. I’m up to 30 miles 5 times a week keeping less than 1000 calories. I weigh 195 pounds today. In order to get lean will riding get me there. So far so good.

ScottCommutes

Yes, riding that schedule will burn fat and make you lean. Also, your calorie intake is very low. When you go that low, there is little to no room for junk foods. Make sure to get enough protein to build new muscle mass.

Good luck.

Ralph4445

I have one cup of Kashi cereal 200 calories no milk, Fitcrunch bar 400 calories, Healthy Choice meal 300 calories, True Lemonade water mixtures 4x10=40 calories and 4x5= 20 calories Trident gun. Under 1000. I don’t get hungry. I’ve got about 10-15 pounds of 60 year old jiggle chub. It’s been going well. I’ve always been very disciplined. I have ran the numbers several ways. If I keep where I am I’m suppose to be there middle of next February. What do you fellas think?

PeteHski

I think you need to think about the longer term sustainability. Otherwise you are just going to put weight back on when you start eating properly again. I would focus on eating healthy with a much smaller calorie deficit and continue riding and do some strength training to avoid muscle loss.

It's not just about losing weight. It's about overall health and fitness. The weight will come off naturally if you eat healthy in moderation and exercise regularly. What you are doing now is unsustainable and you will probably get sick from lack of nutrients etc.

blacknbluebikes 

Starvation doesn't play well with fitness. Consider accepting a lower rate of change for a higher quality of change.

Ralph4445

Thanks everyone for your input. Riding is an all new world for me. All advice is appreciated.

Jughed

Getting lean takes time.

And you want to do it slowly. It’s healthier and will be more sustainable.

You need to eat, fuel your recovery, fuel your rides. You just need to eat the right foods and right amounts - whole foods, no processed crap, limited sugars and carbs. 18 hour daily fasts can work if your rides are not long/intense.

Proper diet is more important than riding - you can’t outride a poor diet, and a lacking diet will not properly fuel your riding.

Ive lost close to 145#’s over the past 4 years, now I’m getting lean. Diet and riding…

MinnMan

Transfer to T&N?

Ralph4445

I don’t understand T&N. Sorry

MinnMan

That would be the Training & Nutrition subforum