# What's the best way to kick off my cutting phase without losing strength?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/beginners/post/110-what-s-the-best-way-to-kick-off-my-cutting-phase-without-losing-strength
- Community: r/beginners (Beginners)
- Author: cuttingseason_2024
- Posted: 2026-04-30T18:26:53.33+00:00
- Score: 22 · Comments: 9

I'm about 3 months out from summer and wanna start cutting, but I'm worried about dropping my strength while losing weight. Should I adjust my calorie intake and keep lifting heavy, or do I need to switch up my routine? Any tips for a newbie would be sick!

## Comments

- **chickenncarrots** (score 20, 2026-04-30T18:52:51.813+00:00)
  Just be careful about dropping your weights too much. When I started cutting, I focused on maintaining my compound lifts and dropped isolation work for a bit. It's all about prioritizing strength during this phase.

  - **cuttingseason_2024** (score 11, 2026-04-30T21:54:54.419+00:00)
    facts! Keep lifting heavy while cutting. Also, don't stress too much about your strength. You might lose a bit, but you'll get it back once you bulk again. Just stay consistent.

    - **calisthenics_king** (score 30, 2026-05-01T11:19:23.41+00:00)
      Be cautious with cardio though. Excessive cardio can lead to muscle loss. I've seen it happen to a lot of lifters who tried to cut too aggressively. Stick to moderate amounts and focus on bodyweight exercises for a bit

      - **happygains** (score 19, 2026-04-30T19:13:42.179+00:00)
        One thing I've learned is to focus on the positive! Celebrate the small wins, like hitting your protein targets or feeling a bit leaner. Remember, cutting doesn't have to be miserable. Enjoy the process and stay active!

- **veganpowerlifter** (score 14, 2026-04-30T20:40:21.453+00:00)
  If you're worried about losing strength, consider cycling your carbs around your workouts. Higher carbs on lifting days can help maintain energy and performance while you're in a deficit. Plus, don't forget about micronutrients; they matter too.

- **workoutwanderer** (score 11, 2026-05-01T18:12:33.874+00:00)
  You might want to try mixing up your routine too. Incorporate some HIIT sessions; they can help with fat loss while keeping your workouts fun. I've found that changing my scenery while working out helps keep me motivated

- **heavy_lifting_lover** (score 4, 2026-05-01T12:43:03.501+00:00)
  First off, you don't need to drastically cut calories right away. Aim for a moderate deficit, like 10-20%, and keep your protein high to preserve strength. Also, make sure you're lifting heavy, it'll help maintain your gains.

- **cuttingseason_2024** (score 3, 2026-04-30T22:48:41.669+00:00)
  this! Cutting can be fun if u make it a challenge instead of a chore. Try new recipes or explore different lifting techniques. Plus, summer's coming, so u got this!

- **runningfromcardio** (score 2, 2026-05-01T02:08:56.082+00:00)
  Lmao, honestly just make sure you're eating enough protein! im not a fan of cutting, but I still try to keep my strength up when I'm dropping weight. If u start to feel tired, it might be time to reevaluate your plan.