is a maintenance phase helpful after a bulk?

Nutrition Q&A [Moderated]
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Hi Jordan,

Thanks for all of the helpful information that you provide through Barbell Medicine. I’ve run the Beginner Template, Powerbuilding I and one block of the Bodybuilding template and have enjoyed them all.

For context: I’m male, 5’10” and currently 165lb with a 32” waist. I have been in a calorie surplus for 4 months and and have put on about 10lbs in that time. My plan is to get to about 170lbs at this rate of weight gain or maybe stop at a 33” waist, whichever comes first, and then begin a cut. My goal for the cut will be to lose fat and preserve as much muscle as possible (kinda goes without saying I guess). I will continue to train and may increase my protein intake to the upper end of the range that you suggest - currently at about 1.8g/kg).

My question: Is a maintenance phase after my bulk and before my cut helpful for preservation of muscle? If so, is there a recommended duration or other advice related to a maintenance phase?

Thanks again.

Eric

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I would do a maintenance phase here of ~ 4 to 6 weeks, if possible.

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