RE: Some pointed and concerned opinions:
Hi, Lora! Welcome to the gang! I hope you'll take this in the spirit of informed concern in which it is intended:
1. You are eating far too little. 1200 kcalories per day is barely enough to keep your systems fuelled even absent any workout, so you are probably in starvation mode. Yes, you do need to increase your kcalorie consumption, with attention to eating healthy, nutritious foods that include complex carbs, fruits/veggies, lean proteins and enough fat;
2. 17% body fat is underneath the generally recognized healthy body fat percentage for women; a healthy range is more like 18% - 24%;
3. You cannot spot-reduce, or spot-lose fat around one particular body area or part. Your body is genetically programmed to store fat in a certain way, and all the spot exercises in the world are not going to change that.
4. YOU ARE IN THE RIGHT PLACE HERE ON THIS FORUM! You absolutely do need to add in a comprehensive, total-body strength training program, that builds muscle mass for all of your muscle groups, not just your legs. Not only for functional fitness (i.e. muscles for human movement) but also for maintaining bone density, which is compromised as we get older (especially women);
5. CATHE VIDEOS TO THE RESCUE! The Pure Strength Series, the Slow and Heavy Series, Maximum Intensity Stength (MIS), Power Hour (PH), and the Cross-Train Express series (CTX) all offer high-quality strength training programs in various durations and emphases. YOUR INSTINCTS ARE CORRECT: Heavy lifting is what you want to work toward!
6. LET US SPEND YOUR MONEY FOR YOU! Perhaps others can chime in and suggest what strength workouts they prefer and why. A good balance of cardio, strength and flexibility training is what you need, and you can find it here, as well as a wealth of practical opinions and encouragement!
Again, welcome to the gang!
Annette