How many calories should i have to lose weight?

How many calories should I eat if I want to lose 7% of my weight?

• I'm 14, 5'4 almost 5'5 and weigh 152lbs. I also have a pretty big build. I have size 11 feet if that helps get the point across. I'm trying to keep a calorie log to help me get down to 143 pounds since I'm just tired of being borderline overweight. I also want to get healthier. I've been exercising almost daily now ( jogging 2 or 3 miles) and I'm losing about a pound a day which is probably just water weight. How many calories should I take in if I want to get down to 143 lbs? I'm trying to stay around 1500 calories since 1200 or under is unhealthy and practically impossible to exercise with, is that ok? Also what are some good exercises to lose weight in my legs and hips? I want to get into single digit jeans too.

• Answer:

  Hi paige, I have to say good job for wanting to change your lifestyle. at 14 you have a very fast metabolism. first thing you need to do is make sure you eat healthy. 5-6 small portions a day. second, cardio will help a little bit. the thing is running does not challenge the body enough to put it in a state of shock, which is what you want to be able to lose weight faster. I would suggest, start lifting some weights. train 5 days a week. 3 days with weights, 2 days running. get a basic set of dumbbells i know your too young to be able to go to a gym. and do basic exercises. push ups sit ups squats, and lastly stay between 1300-1500 calories. good luck and keep it up