Need input on where-to from here...

Hi Jordan,

Thanks for all of the content and education you put out into the world. The work you and the team do through Barbell Medicine has shaped me in many ways. I recognize the impact in the gym almost daily, but BBM has also altered the lens through which I see life. I appreciate your critical analysis and thoughtful approach.

I am seeking some direction with my nutrition. My current stats:

25, male
5’ 10.5"
182.4lb
35.5" waist

Context: over the last 3 months, I’ve lost about 10 lbs as I worked through the Bridge. Not the most aggressive of cuts, but the pace was manageable and my adherence was high. Throughout the cut I adhered to your protein recommendations, and saw my strength increase. That was cool.

I am now at a fork in the road. I am not as lean as I would like to be, but I am also not as strong as I would like to be. I’ve been hovering in a maintenance phase for the last week as I’ve been undecided where to go next nutritionally. What would be your recommendation — continue with calorie restriction until my waist measurement is smaller, eat at maintenance and train hard, or introduce a calorie surplus?

Thanks in advance.

Calmills,

Thanks for the post and I hope you’re doing well.

As far as what to do now, I would probably continue with calorie restriction until your waist is < 34" before considering gaining weight.

-Jordan

Cheers! Much appreciated.

Have a great 4th of July.