I would like to lose some weigh before the racing season starts in about 5-6 weeks. I was wondering how much weight is it safe/possible to lose in about a month. I am currently hovering just under 200 lbs, and would like to lose about 10 pounds (maybe to around 186-8). I am 6'2 and fairly active. I am also 16 years old. is this safe/possible?

thanks in advance

Peter

Losing one pound per week is generally considered to be a "safe and sane" rate of weight loss. Fast enough to get the job done, but slow enough that you're not risking your health due to lack of nutrients, nor risking your training intensity due to bonking.

You can achieve this rate of weight loss with a deficit of 500 calories per day...this can be achieved by: 1) eating a little less, 2) exercising a bit more, or 3) a bit of both.

So, if you can lose 4 lbs (or a little more) in a month, and then ramp up your training volume during the racing season, you should reach your weight goal within a couple of months.

BTW - next year, try to be more like Lance and less like Jan (i.e., watch what you eat in the fall and winter!).

Another thing to remember is that the faster you lose it, the harder your body will work to try to gain it all back (plus a little more for the next time you are in a "crisis"). You don't want to try to lose any more than 1-2 pounds per week on average.

Did you ever think about weight watchers? I was and am very sucessful on there points plan. 302.6 down to 224 .I have more to loose than you but it healthy and safe.This has been since July 05. Disclaimer "results not typical"