[BoopRN]

OK so, I'm not new the the plateaus unfortunately. I have been mostly calorie counting/ carb counting. I have to admit I try to stay between 1200 calories a day. Sometimes when I am at work (12hr+ shifts) its almost impossible to stay at that and I am mostly under 1200 cals when I work. I have the type to job where you are lucky to have a lunch break sometimes. I try to work out at least 3-4 days a week, depending on my schedule. Plus now its the TOM so my plateau will most likely be prolonged for about another week,possibly even gain? Having said that, any tips on how to beat this plateau?

[UrsusMaritimus]

I know it sounds kind of scary, but I've seen other people here suggest upping your calorie intake to break a plateau if you're eating a low amount to begin with (under 1200 is low - probably too low). You and I are close in height and weight, and I'm losing on 1500 calories a day. You could try adding 100 calories a day to your diet - it might send a message to your body that you are in fact getting enough food and don't need to hang on to excess fat. You could also try to fit in another workout (I know it's hard on a busy schedule), or try a new kind of exercise.

Just my two cents. Good luck!

[Eves]

I would also suggest adding 100 more calories a day for a week and see how that helps. Try adding one hard boiled egg, or one tsp of evoo or a medium apple.

The problem with going too low calorie too soon is that you may not be getting enough calories to keep your body working, so it hangs on to everything. Also, you have no place to go when you get smaller.

[Matilda08]

I have heard of people doing like a detox to bust through a plateau. For instance cutting out meat for a few days or something like that I never really tried it myself but I have seen others speak of this on other sites as well as this site.

[Zima]

I disagree with everyone. I say lower your calories even more, and work out even harder. Change your routine when working out...your body might be used to the same ol' thing. Also, eat different kinds of foods, making sure they are low in calories.

[fat4fit]

I think that you could try switching around your calories and your activity, but the biggest thing with a plateau is to not let is discourage you and you will get through it. Try doing interval training, if you love doing a certain exercise just change it up. Think of a scale of 1-5 one is easy 5 is hard, do 30sec and 1, 20 sec at 3 and 5 sec at 10, or make up your own. This should trick your body a bit and get you through your plateau. Plus its really good for your heart.

[fatfrog]

Agree with changing your routine for working out. Also, do your work-outs currently include strength training? If not, that is something you should add. Strength training doesn't have to take that much time. Just push-ups every other or every third night before bed, maybe some lunges as you're flossing or brushing. Even if you skip your formal work-out, a little is better than none.

UrsusMaritimus: I love your Shaw quote!!

[yoyoma]

How long have you been on the plateau? You might be making progress which is being masked by normal fluctuations. I've had good luck in the past with just staying OP and waiting it out.

[BoopRN]

Well this today when i weighed in i had gained 2 lbs. It was inevitble with TOM When I went to the gym yesterday I increased my pace on the treadmill, hope if I keep it up something will have to give. Thanks for the advice