okay I'm really new at this, can anyone help me figure out my calories?

According to the book I should be eating 1960 cals on a non workout day, and 2205 on a workout day. Since I'm attempting to lose some weight while I'm at it I'm thinking maybe I should eat less? I really am lost here, I'm definately one of those girls Schuler talks about who have always thought they need to eat 1200 - 1400 cals a day. I was thinking maybe I'd shoot for something like 1700 on non workout days and 1900 on workout days? But I'm worried this will keep me from being able to gain any muscle. What have you guys been doing?

Thanks in advance for your advice.

P.S. This is sort of off topic but is there any exercise comparable to the prone jackknife? I just couldn't do it, because I can't balance on that stupid swiss ball and because there's just not enough floor space in my gym. I felt sort of silly falling off the thing in front of all those serious lifting-types...

Well, the book says if you are trying to lose to eat a bit less. I think those numbers sound fine, just pay attention to your protein. Re-evaluate in about a month and see how you feel.

I know people say you can't build muscle on a deficit, but I haven't had an issue on a slight deficit - about 200-300 calories under. I've certainly built muscle that is noticeable. I lifted before I started those program so I'm not sure that it is the 'newbie' gain that everyone talks about. The bottom line is, you will still see results. I don't know enough about the mechanics of it to say much more than that.

As far as the prone jackknife goes, I don't know any alternatives. But you'll get used to the balance thing and looking silly. Seriously, I don't even think twice about taking up a huge amount of floor space and looking like a geek. It's my gym too, and I need the space for that amount of time.