Weight loss, cardio, and calories

[twm]

Okay, I am confused about weight loss and cardio. On a related topic, I am trying to shed a few pounds which is why I've been thinking about this. Some people have said that a given amount of cardio (such as 45 minutes, etc).

Mainly, I am citing posts in this thread: http://www.wannabebigforums.com/showthread.php?t=45613

Now, if the key to weight loss is controlling calories, then a given amount of cardio that exceeds calories consumed is precisely enough, not too much or too little. If your goal is weight loss, the more calories burned, the better, right? If you do an hour of cardio daily and burn 400-450ish calories, and your caloric intake is 2500, say 500 less than normal, what is the harm?

Sorry if I'm unclear.. I'm trying to piece my thoughts together.

[Paul Stagg]

Two things -

Cardio can interfere with the recovery from your lifting.

Dieting is FAR easier than cardio. Cutting out 500 calories is nothing compared to the amount of time a day you have to spend doing cardio.

Keep in mind, you don't want too much of a deficit. Slow and steady is the way to go.