Ladies That Lift

Join

Accidental arm bulking :(

AshLawsonPearson
AshLawsonPearson Posts: 34 Member
in Social Groups
Help! I have self-proclaimed Accidental Arm Bulking! My TDEE is about 1800, and I've increased my cals from 1200 to 1389. I've been following a weight lifting program & I've already gained a good bit of strength in 3.5 weeks! I 'broke up with my scale' until the end of August, so I don't know what those numbers are doing, but my clothes are *slowly* starting to fit better (or fit at all!). The problem is that my arms are getting huge-- but not in a body building/muscular kind of way! I know that the muscles are getting bigger, but when can I expect them to start looking toned and not bulky?!

Replies

  • Steph_135
    Steph_135 Posts: 3,280 Member
    The only thing I can think of is that maybe you are doing too many of one muscle exercise (ie. working the biceps only). Remember to target a variety of muscles in the arms and shoulders so that they all get attention.
  • jaeone
    jaeone Posts: 649 Member
    Hi,
    Its probably your muscles retaining water. Unfortunately You won't gain any muscle eating at such a large deficit. Women won't get bulky unless they use steroids, And you would have to eat a surplus of food over your TDEE over a long period of time.
  • Jelymu81
    Jelymu81 Posts: 18 Member
    Hi, are you new to lifting? If so, it takes a while for the "muscle memory" to kick in and start showing definition and not just be retaining water. For me personally, it took about 5 months of consistent lifting and training (mostly Crossfit) to see noticeable definition. Keep at it though, it'll come!

    Also, jaeone is absolutely right on - you're not eating enough to gain any real muscle. I learned this the hard way too. :)

Categories