So if I eat 800 calories and do Zumba that burns 300. My calories for the day will be 500? Or do you guys still count it as 800 :-/ (blush)

Good question!! Some diet trackers have you subtract your calories burned. On some days , I was in the hole by200-300 calories. I just don't think that is write so I don't subtract calories burned. I feel "more honest" that way.

Yes, you should be able to eat more when you exercise. It's important to remember your body will hold onto all the calories it can if it's not getting enough nourishment. Can make ramping up exercise feel counterproductive. So go slow and see if you need more calories as you go.

I don't eat back my exercise calories. I did find, after a while, that I needed more calories as my exercise intensity increased. I wasn't having good workouts. Felt sluggish. Now I eat about 1200 a day, but I make sure I get in my exercise.

So far my doctor or nutritionist has told me to count anything....calories, Protein, fats,etc I am limited to 5 bites per meal...although I do find myself grazing some days....a bite here, a bite there. My foods are limited. I got back Aug 11th and will probably get a larger variety of food. I exercise...walk and take Water aerobics classes. Weight is coming off nicely. I am smart about what I eat and the amounts.