Deciding Between Bulking and Cutting: A Guide for Fitness Enthusiasts

Hello dudes, I've been working out for about 1.5 years. I started with a bulk and my body fat was around 9% for a year. I've been in cut-recomp for about 3 months, hitting 162 pounds, and I've kind of hit a plateau. I'm wondering, should I bulk again, or continue cutting? Let's dive into the details.

Understanding Bulking and Cutting

The decision to bulk or cut depends on your fitness goals. If you are skinny and not satisfied with your physique, then bulking is the way to go. Conversely, if you are fat and want to look better, then cutting is the appropriate path. There is a term called lean bulking, which means maintaining a body fat level that is not too high, allowing you to see some muscle definition but not excess body fat.

Deciding Based on Goals

If your goal is to gain muscle and size, then bulking is the way to go. Focus on consuming plenty of protein and carbs, and lift heavy weights to build muscle mass. On the other hand, if you are looking to get leaner, then cutting is the better approach. This involves consuming fewer calories than your body burns and incorporating more cardio into your routine. It’s also important to focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to maintain your energy levels while cutting calories.

The Role of Trainers, Dieticians, and Social Media Influencers

Well, I’m literally pissed off. I’m annoyed by the trainers, dieticians, and now a third category of social media influencers. They either spread stupid myths or re-spread the myths that have been cleared long ago. Why do they do it? For false marketing and instant fame. They are, of course, showcasing their brilliant ideological viewpoints as well. Narratively, this is understandable but the end result is disastrous for young people, who become confused and remain confused for years.

The Misunderstanding of Cutting and Bulking

Two terms, 'cutting' and 'bulking,' deeply but very wrongly entered the minds of people in fitness. These words, which should have a very small application, have been so deeply ingrained in the minds of people that other important terms such as strength, agility, speed, and endurance have taken a backseat. This is largely due to the dominance of bodybuilding and powerlifting in the fitness industry.

However, the fitness industry is changing. It is moving away from bulky and heavy muscular looks to lean physiques, wellness, longevity, and overall mental and physical health. This change can be observed in the sport of bodybuilding, where there has been a massive inclination towards physique fitness and figure competitions.

Consequently, the market is now dominated by newer fitness trends such as dance fitness including Zumba, Bhangra, Bollywood, yoga, and Pilates, sports-based fitness activities like kickboxing, MMA, boxing, and functional bootcamps. This has made fitness accessible to everyone. The HIIT-style workouts and unconventional workouts using various equipment like kettlebells, TRX, battling ropes, sandbags, tyres, and hammers have also contributed to the growth of the fitness industry.

The takeaway is that bulking and cutting should not be the primary focus of your fitness journey. Instead, concentrate on overall health, strength, and performance across various fitness areas. Every individual's needs differ, and a personalized approach is the key to success in fitness.

So, how do you decide whether to bulk or cut? The answer lies in your specific fitness goals and your ability to maintain a balanced approach. If you’re focused on muscle gains, bulking is the way to go. If you want to improve your overall fitness and lean physique, cutting might be the better route. However, always consult with a professional trainer or nutritionist to ensure you’re making the best choices for your fitness journey.

Conclusion

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to fitness. Bulking and cutting should be seen as tools, not the entire program. Your fitness journey should be a journey of self-discovery and growth, not just about getting bigger or leaner. Choose what’s best for you, and remember that a well-rounded approach to fitness is the key to long-term success.