Weight loss is an individual process, and the number on the scale does not always reflect the amount of inches lost. Because muscle weighs more than fat, it is very possible for you to maintain the same weight while losing inches throughout your body. Dropping two sizes, therefore, may have less to do with how much you weigh, and more to do with how many inches you have lost.
Size Measurements
While all manufacturers are different, and sizes may change based on where your clothing is purchased, usatourist.com shows a 3 in. difference between a size 12 and size 16. Size 16 measurements are 41 in. in the bust, 32.5 in. in the waist, and 43 in. in the hips. A size 12 measures 38 in. in the bust, 29.5 in. in the waist, and 40 in. in the hips.
Weight Versus Inches
A glance at any weight loss forum will show that some women lose 10 pounds per inch, some 20, and some might not have even lost weight, but they dropped inches. How much weight you will need to lose to drop 3 in. is impossible to specify since it varies so much. The higher body fat percentage you have, the more likely you will be able to drop inches and weight at the same time. If done correctly, weight loss should stem from body fat rather than muscle. For instance, someone starting with 35 percent body fat will have an easier time seeing the scale drop than someone who has 20 percent body fat. Since muscle weighs more than fat, the more muscle you have, the more your weight may be reluctant to budge.
Muscle Versus Fat
When losing weight, you should aim to lose the most pounds from fat as possible. In the process, you might gain muscle at the same time, especially if you are weight training, which is ideal for boosting metabolism and adding muscle tone. A pound of muscle can burn more calories that a pound of fat can, according to weightwatchers.com. Women should aim for a healthy range of 22 to 25 percent body fat. The more body fat you lose, the more likely it will be that you drop inches, and most likely pounds as well.
Weight Loss Plan
Getting from a size 16 to 12 could take several months of discipline and diligence. You should be working out for 30 minutes or more most days of the week, rotating between cardio workouts and strength training workouts. To maintain your weight, you should eat 15 calories per pound of body weight. Since one pound of fat is equal to 3,500 calories, you should aim to trim 500 calories from your diet per day, or burn the same amount during your workout. Never dip below 1,200 calories per day, or your body will begin to store fat rather than burn it.
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