time to bulk? advice please!

AimesL

I've just started lifting again after several months off due to an accident. I'm 5ft 3" and weigh 103 lbs. I tend to gain weight on my thighs and butt and would like to lose fat from there. But I also want to regain strength and muscle, particularly in my upper body. Ultimately, I would like to develop a stronger body that is in proportion and a smaller/tighter butt. What is the best way of going about this? I am aware that I can't spot reduce and that I can't lose fat and gain muscle at the same time. As I am at the lower range of the BMI scale, is it best for me to bulk first?

I was eating at a deficit for several months so I am afraid if I start bulking now, I will just gain more lower body fat. I have upped my calories and noticed weight gain but I know this is probably water weight. According to IIFYM, I should be having 1839 calories a day (212C/154P/41F). Does this sound about right for a slow bulk? I train 4-5 times a week, all strength training. Should I be adding in any cardio at all? Any help would be appreciated!!

Chrisparadise579

Really when to bulk is a preference thing, it depends how much weight you are willing to gain before cutting again, my suggestion would be if you are comfotable with the way you look now go ahead and start bulking until you get to a weight you are no longer comfortable with.

AimesL

Yeah I'm pretty happy to go ahead with it if thats the case. Do you reckon my macros look about right? Different calculators give me different figures for my daily calories altogether...

IGbnat24

I would double your fat, reducing your carbs. Make sure you're lifting heavy and focusing on compound lifts (squats, dead lifts, presses, pull-ups, etc).

AimesL

Thanks! Could you explain to me the benefits of doubling fat and reducing carbs? In terms of lifting, I have that all covered:)