To Bulk or maintain

Nutrition Q&A [Moderated]
1

I’m currently juggling the idea of bulking vs maintaining weight.

I’m 25M, 170lbs, 5’9” and probably 10-15% BF.

I have about 10 years lifting experience and increase strength and muscle mass rather slowly. My goals would to be overall larger and stronger while maintaining healthy BF percentage. I understand there’s not too much evidence on bulking vs maintaining weight for increasing lean muscle mass aside from anecdotes and a few smaller sized studies.

This leaves me uncertain whether I should maintain weight and rely on consistent training to increase muscle size and strength, or if slowly trying to add 0.25-1lb/wk until my BF% starts getting to high.

Some additional details: I consume ~150-200g protein a day and run a variety BBM programs for all of my training. I sleep adequately and have tolerable stress levels.

Thanks!

2

I would gain weight slowly over the next 5-6 years with small, periodic maintenance or cutting phases based on preferences.

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