Any mens lifting results please - Strong lifts 5x5

nichojanes

I have just started doing the stronglifts 5x5 program and was wondering if anyone has done this and can let me know their results.

I literally am only just starting but following a year of weight loss it is time to get some strength and build some muscle (I am ridiculously week at present)

How long until I can expect visible results?

Thanks

InstantKarma24

It depends on what your overall goal is... once you get form down, you'll see a big jump (newbie gains), and then come to a wall. If you're running a calorie deficit, you'll see little to no progress on the weight (it's incredibly difficult to put on more muscle when running a deficit). BUT, you'll be keeping muscle tone and strength while shedding more body fat, which will make your muscles look bigger... If you're running a surplus, I'd expect to keep gaining strength nearly weekly (adding a little more weight each week or two)

64GT

I started stronglifts about 8 weeks ago. I read and read and re-read stronglifts regarding form, and then more. Trainers at my gym have repeatedly told me to keep my feet pointed forward during squats, which is a recipe for disaster. Read and understand everything about form... every detail!
Ok I made that point.
In 8 weeks my weight loss has tapered to *very* slow. I have increased my calorie intake to TDEE-20 on rest days and TDEE on lifting days, and tried to shift toward more protein especially on lifting days.
I have been told that you can't build muscle while on deficit unless you are new at weightlifting. I must be new then. My wife confirms what I thought I saw in the mirror - arms and legs more defined, and building muscles all around shoulders. I have stuck to 3 days a week lifting and only done moderate cardio on off days like biking or swimming occasionally. My waist has lost an inch since I started 5x5. I have found the fitnessfast app on iPhone to be very easy to track my progress on 5x5. I occasionally couldn't get all the reps and had to repeat or even go down in weight a bit along the way so far. Up to 110 lbs squat, press, bench and row, and 155 deadlift now. I started with a 45 lb bar on everything just like you are supposed to. It is actually fun making gradual progress and I'm still looking forward to going to the gym every time which hasn't always been the case with me in other things I tried.
Don't be in a hurry, follow the 5x5 as written on strong lifts and have fun with it.