Next Move?

Nutrition Q&A [Moderated]
1

Hi Jordan,

I was hoping you could advise on the best next step for my situation;

Have been training for approx 2.5 years, with the goal of getting as strong as possible with a good body composition (relatively lean with good muscle definition - let’s say 15% bf or lower).

I started off underweight at ~65kg/~143lbs bodyweight, and have bulked over the past two years to ~97kg/~214lbs, while doing strength training programs plus accessories (SS on to The Bridge, and then similar others). My diet has basically been aimed to increase body weight by 0.5kg/1lbs per week (with some layoffs where I lost weight, etc.) while consuming 1g/lb protein, tracking protein and overall calories per day, without worrying about specific numbers for carbs/fats (though generally eating ‘clean’).

The problem I have is that I’m not yet satisfied with my overall size, and would like to continue gaining mass (to get big juicy guns, etc.) - but I’ve also accumulated a fair bit of fat (waist approx 36-37”, pic below) and I’m not sure whether it’s wise to continue gaining mass in the same way and simply cut later to shave off the excess fat, or if it’s time to lean out a bit now and then go for a more controlled bulk later.

I’d be really grateful for any suggestions.

Full stats:
26 years old
6ft 1 (186cm)
97kg/214lbs bodyweight
36-37” waist
S - 160kg x3@9
B - 105kg x4@9
D - 170kg x5@9

Pic:

[Album] imgur.com
2

JK,

Thanks for joining the forum and posting here.

I would recommend reducing your waist circumference to <34" before considering going back to gaining weight. I would not recommend continuing to gain weight at this point.

-Jordan

3

Hi Jordan,

Thanks so much for your response!

That’s fine - once I have reigned in the waist to <34” and leanded out a little, as I still want to increase LBM, should I perhaps resume bulking at a slower pace? Would even the same (+1lb/week) pace work? (As the ratio of LBM to fat is presumably in favour of LBM, so I wouldn’t simply return to this same point).

Thanks again,
Jake

4

I don’t think rapid weight gain is a good idea in nearly any circumstance and 1lb/wk is aggressive. I’d be aiming more for 1-2 lbs a month.

-Jordan