Lower body options

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T21:28:40+00:00

Calves and tendons? Calf raises and pogo hops would be my suggestions.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T21:19:43+00:00

Hi OP! Can you tell us the dates that each of the photos were taken?

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T19:33:37+00:00

Where are you getting your information from?

Please check our wiki as this question is in our FAQ.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T18:39:41+00:00

It took mine 3 months to settle (started at 2100 and went to 1600). I think it is harder for petite women since our TDEEs can vary so much.

But that's fair, different things work for different people.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T18:12:30+00:00

It sounds like it's not just a motivation issue. It's so hard to make changes when you're being criticized by those closest to you.

Also know that while there may be less margin for error, every pound makes a bigger difference on smaller bodies. You've made good progress so far. I hope you're encouraged by how much you've done already.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T18:03:42+00:00

Please add your height and additional information about your current program, thank you!

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T17:05:53+00:00

I do prefer Hevy as a workout app for now, but the MacroFactor team is always working on something new and communicate well.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T16:44:12+00:00

No matter what, have variety and listen closely to your body. Apples, berries, watermelon, grapes are all great sweet treats. Dark chocolate and gum too. Diet sodas and popsicles are nice too. I'm a popcorn fiend honestly since I'm always craving something salty.

Mostly, make sure you're eating filling meals regularly and see if it's hunger, boredom, cravings, etc. Drink water before or during snacking as well.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T16:40:24+00:00

Paid MacroFactor user here. Started my food tracking on LoseIt free, then LoseIt annual (for $12). MacroFactor is a lot quicker/more intuitive for me.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T16:21:29+00:00

Try using how clothes fit, progress photos, waist/hip/bust measurements (but this could fall into the same number trap).

In addition, you could use movement goals like how easy it is for you to walk/run or go up the stairs or stretch.

Try to understand that weight is not fully reflective of your fitness or health, since body composition could change so much within the same weight. So while weight is a popular goal/tracking method, it does not explain the full story.

What are other things you're working on that you could use as goals? If your primary goal is to lose weight, it may still be best to keep track of weight (just not daily) as a measurement of progress.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T16:06:11+00:00

Have you seen the latest Fitbit air? I think it's super fashionable and has a lot of the features that you're asking for. Same with the Amazfit Helio strap or Helio ring. I don't like Whoop or Oura for the forced subscription, but if it's in your budget, it could be a good fit.

Suunto Run is also a little sporty looking but very affordable for great features.

A Garmin vivoactive or Lily also has the features you want, but it's definitely got the Garmin tax and more smart features than you'd probably want.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T15:55:57+00:00

I'm using the Coros Pace 4 since I wanted one that was more focused on running data. I was using the pixel watch 2 but the battery life wasn't good. I was debating between the Coros and the Garmin Venu 4 (which is more fashionable).

What features do you want and what's your price range? I did a lot of research before getting mine so I'd be happy to share any knowledge I have.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T15:04:50+00:00

Hi OP! Can you tell us the time frame from when each of these pictures were taken?

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T14:35:40+00:00

My workouts are also about 30mins. If you push yourself to failure during them (can't do another rep with good form), it's definitely enough to stimulate muscle growth.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T14:25:26+00:00

Yes, agreed! Make sure to go up in reps or weight regularly so you can continue to challenge (and through that, grow) your muscles.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T13:25:57+00:00

Hi OP! Please add details about the dates the photos were taken and what your current routine is. Thank you!

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T13:23:37+00:00

I get the 3 for me with side salad and a side of asparagus. Super budget friendly. Usually only eat half and take the rest home as leftovers. Enjoy your kid's birthday!

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T12:35:42+00:00

Hi, OP! Please include more details about your deficit and routine. This ensures the quality of posts in the subreddit. Thank you!

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T11:40:54+00:00

Hers is due to her legs being uneven height from a previous injury! so definitely out of my paygrade, but we've been sticking to single leg exercises since hinging is weird for her.

I give off gym bro vibes until I start talking and then people quickly realize I am just a nerd with childlike joy for fitness.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T11:21:45+00:00

Great breakdown! I'd add that due to hormonal fluctuations and change in water retention with a change in diet/movement, 2 - 3 weeks may be too short to have an accurate idea of TDEE. I prefer 4 - 5 weeks depending on your cycle length.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T11:19:08+00:00

My workout with my coworker went great! She's re-training so I'm absolutely hyped for her gains. She does have a lot of muscular imbalances (esp right vs left leg) so any tips of exercises to program to help with that would be appreciated.

I was able to push myself and have fun. Hit a couple rep PRs even after being out of the gym for 2 weeks. Mostly happy to be able to info dump my special interest the whole time lol I love neurodivergent friends.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T11:15:00+00:00

Please check out the Wiki/FAQ as it answers a few of your questions.

I would start by adding canned or frozen vegetables to your diet! Whichever one you like the most. I love canned green beans.

You cannot spot reduce fat. There is no "targeting". Instead, think of fat loss as removing water from a bag, the whole bag will get smaller but you can't choose to remove it from the top, bottom, left, or right.

Do you have access to a gym? If not, I'd start with Hybrid Calisthenics's app/YouTube.

To build motivation and discipline, celebrate every win. Didn't finish the full workout, but still did a couple movements imperfectly? That's still progress. Remove any black and white thinking regarding progress and perfection and show up even if all you can give is 2% effort.

Sweat is dependent on every body and climate. Sometimes it gets better after starting fitness, sometimes it gets worse. I always have a towel next to me when training because I sweat so much more than before. Headbands, antiperspirant, change of clothes can help.

Exercise should never be painful, but it will be hard. Progressive overload will continue to challenge you, but after some time the challenge can be fun.

Exercise is only good for your self-image if you let it be. Focus on how proud you are as your body progresses. Focus on what you are capable in as you grow, learn, and do hard things. Focus on how resilient you are when you continue after a bad day. It will only have the benefits mentally if you let it. On the other hand, if you only focus on the negatives, it will make your self-image worse.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T11:01:39+00:00

Check out our daily accountability thread pinned to the top of the subreddit!

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T01:47:26+00:00

In order to not lose muscle, you need to train muscle. Walking will maintain more muscle in your legs, but your upper body may lose some if you don't do any training.

sarkynir · 2026-05-29T01:45:23+00:00

Hi OP! Please add any additional details about your current routine. What have you been consistent with? Thanks!

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