cutting/bulking question

EvanKeel

I guess this doesn't have anything to do with SL 5x5 specifically, but I'm posing here anyway. I'm contemplating increasing in my intake to a slight surplus now that my lifts are getting more challenging.

Mostly this is because:

1. I would like some more muscle mass at some point.
2. I'm getting tired/bored of losing weight.

However, if there's a certain BF % or Body comp that I should wait for before I stop losing weight, then I'll just keep going. So, should I wait, or does it make a difference in the long run?

Currently:
Height: 5'10
Weight: 195lbs...goal is approx 170lbs
BF %: Best guess is 24-25%. It's been awhile since I've taken any measurements, though my 36 jeans are feeling a little loose lately

melainemelaine

Are you currently eating at a deficit? If so I would probably just try to eat maintenance instead and eat plus 300 cals on workout days see how that goes? You need to give it a couple weeks to see how things work for you.

( I'm no expert and been experimenting a lot since I started lifting in February)

EvanKeel

Are you currently eating at a deficit? If so I would probably just try to eat maintenance instead and eat plus 300 cals on workout days see how that goes? You need to give it a couple weeks to see how things work for you.

( I'm no expert and been experimenting a lot since I started lifting in February)

I am, yes. I lost the first 50or so pounds eating in a consistent deficit (diet and exercise) over about a year. Then I hit a plateau and took a break for 1 month, and I've been eating at a deficit for the last 2 months(ish)

melainemelaine

Are you currently eating at a deficit? If so I would probably just try to eat maintenance instead and eat plus 300 cals on workout days see how that goes? You need to give it a couple weeks to see how things work for you.

( I'm no expert and been experimenting a lot since I started lifting in February)

I am, yes. I lost the first 50or so pounds eating in a consistent deficit (diet and exercise) over about a year. Then I hit a plateau and took a break for 1 month, and I've been eating at a deficit for the last 2 months(ish)

So maybe try and up your cals slowly, check your macros as well and try to get more of your daily from protein. To build muscle you need to fuel, so eating to little may hold you back on your progress.
I find it really hard as I try to loose the last 10 pounds whilst trying not to loose this in muscle mass if that makes any sense.

jfan175

My personal opinion is to get to your fat loss goal before bulking.

I'm in a very similar situation. I'm at 5'10", 188 from 226, size 36 jeans are loose. I plan on reaching my goal of 175 (<15% bf if my calculations are correct) or lower before I think about seeing if this 51yo body can put on any muscle. I realize that you have to put on a little fat with the muscle, but I'll never again want to see the north side of 180 once I get below it.