Bulk or Cut?

[Whichwaytogo]

Hi Jordan,

Age: 30
Height: 5’8
Weight: 160lbs
Waist: 35”

1RMs (lbs)
Squat: 245
Bench: 205
Deadlift: 275

Thank you for all your helpful advice. I need some direction.

I’m not as muscular or strong as I’d like to be, despite over three years of lifting weights. Given my numbers, maybe I’m not doing something correctly.

Being shredded with visible abs is not a priority for me. Being healthy, strong, and reasonably muscular is the priority.

Question: Do I bulk, cut, or maintain? If you recommend cutting, at which waist circumference do you recommend stopping at?

Thank you.

[Jordan Feigenbaum]

What program are you using and what has your weight done in the last 3 months?

[Whichwaytogo]

At the moment I’m doing pushups, pull-ups, and kettlebell swings. Not following a program. (Gyms are closed.)

My weight hasn’t changed in about a year.

I ran an LP for a few months a few years ago. Since then, I’ve been running variations of 5/3/1 with frustratingly minimal progress.

I now realize I need direction for when gyms open again.

[Jordan Feigenbaum]

Would recommend our at-home plan in the interim: https://www.barbellmedicine.com/blog...rcise-at-home/

And our beginner program after: https://www.barbellmedicine.com/blog...-prescription/

I'd probably hold your weight steady for 3 months, on these programs and see what happens to your waist circumference. If it doesn't go down by >1.5" or so, I'd reduce your calories.

[Whichwaytogo]

I appreciate it. Thank you!