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Posted by u/macroninja98Cutting

Calorie deficit and losing strength, is this expected?

TL;DR: Losing strength while in a calorie deficit, normal?

So I've been in a calorie deficit for a few weeks while trying to keep lifting heavy. My lifts are definitely feeling a bit off, like I'm lifting lighter and struggling more than usual. Is this normal or am I just being a total noob? Anyone else experience this while cutting? 馃

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u/macroninja98

Skill issue, fam. You can't expect to lift like a beast while eating less than your body needs. You're basically running on fumes. If you want to keep strength, you might need to rethink your calorie deficit or adjust your lifting strategy. Or, embrace the grind and go for those lightweight reps! 馃槀

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u/numbers_lifter

It's quite common to feel weaker when you're in a calorie deficit. Your body is adjusting to a lower energy intake, and while lifting heavy, your muscles may not have the same fuel to perform. Many athletes experience a decline in strength during a cut, especially if they're not managing their recovery or nutrition properly. It's crucial to monitor your macros, prioritize protein, and ensure you're not overtraining. Listening to your body is key

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u/proteinpancakes22

Facts! When I was cutting, I felt like my lifts were off too. I noticed I had to drop my weights a bit for my main lifts. Meal prepping helped me stay on track though, kept my protein up and made sure I wasn't starving during the week! Have you tried tracking your meals closely with an app? It can make a big difference.

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u/strongasplant

Yep, it's pretty normal! When you're in a deficit, ur muscles don't have as much glycogen stored, which can impact your lifts. I rely on whole food sources of plant protein to help maintain strength, like lentils and chickpeas. Have you considered adjusting your meal timing? It might help you feel stronger during workouts.

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u/moms_with_weights

I hear you, it can be tough! When I was cutting, I started focusing more on accessory lifts to maintain strength while cutting down. It's all about finding balance. Plus, maybe add in some more carbs around your workout? That really helped me keep my energy up during my lifts. Keep at it!

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