Is it possible to increase max reps while losing weight? : Fitness

So I’m currently 289pounds (my goal weight is 175) but I’ve recently started getting into simple body-weight workouts but I’m unsure if it’s even worthwhile doing now because I’ve heard countless times even on this sub that it’s impossible to lose weight and build muscle because one requires a calorie deficit and the other a surplus. Therefore if I’m not able to build any muscle currently would it actually be possible to increase my maximum reps for something like a pushup (which is currently 11 on my knees)? Thanks for any help.

I was kind of split between putting this question in this sub or another one more focused on losing weight but I thought because it’s more about the exercise it would be alright here, sorry if it doesn’t belong.