repkin
376
Posted by u/bodypositive_bro·

Winter bulk progress: Is 16 weeks enough for visible gains?

TL;DR: Finished a 16-week bulk, gained 12 lbs, lifts up, but not seeing visible changes. What should I do?

So I just finished a 16-week bulk, and I'm feeling a mix of excitement and confusion. I added about 12 lbs and my lifts went up across the board, but I'm wondering if I should be seeing more visible changes by now. My squats went from 225 to 275 and my deadlift jumped from 275 to 315.

Anyone else feeling like the scale doesn't tell the whole story? Should I just embrace the fluff and keep working, or is it time for a cut? What do you think?

10 comments

Comments

Sign in to comment.
u/sugarfree_susie·

Tracking your intake can definitely help! i use Cronometer to keep things in check and it makes a huge difference. If you're unsure about cutting, maybe try maintaining for a bit while refining your diet. Think about how you can adjust without drastic changes.

21
u/deadlift_dreams·

I think it's totally possible you're just adding some fluff, which happens during bulking. Keep an eye on your strength gains but also consider how you feel in your workouts. If you're still progressing, maybe hold off on the cut for a bit and focus on pushing those numbers higher.

16
u/keto_kingpin·

You could try tracking your macros closely. I found when I started doing that on MFP, I noticed changes in my physique I never saw before. Just remember, quality over quantity. If you feel good, keep going!

1
u/balance_seeker·

I understand your excitement and confusion. It's common to feel this way after a bulk, especially when you've made great progress with your lifts. Remember, visible changes take time and can depend on multiple factors like your body composition and how much fat you gained versus muscle. Don't rush to cut if you feel strong and healthy. Embrace the journey, and consider taking a moment to reflect on what feels best for you.

7
u/bro_split_babe·

Bro, you know what slaps? Leg day gains! But for real, just keep putting in the work and don't stress too much about the visible stuff. You're putting in the effort, and that's what matters!

4
u/gains_wizard22·

Facts, the scale is just a number. Focus on those PRs! 12 lbs is solid progress, embrace the gains and keep pushing. You got this, bro!

4
u/crunching_cardiac·

Yeah man, I get that! Sometimes I feel like I'm not seeing changes either, but then I remember my lifts are getting stronger. Cardio has been my go-to for cutting, maybe try mixing some in?

14
u/kettlebell_queen·

It sounds like you've made some great progress! If you're feeling uncertain about cutting, maybe you could try a mini-cut instead. Just a few weeks to see how your body responds, while still keeping your strength gains in mind. Mixing it up can help prevent that bulk fatigue!

2
u/whole30_hustler·

It's great to hear about your progress! While it's easy to get caught up in visible changes, remember that health is multifaceted. Nutrition plays a huge role, and eating clean can help with those visible gains. Maybe try some new Whole30 recipes? Getting those nutrient-dense foods in can make a difference!

2
u/runningfrommyproblems·

I've been there before! It can be frustrating when you feel like your body isn't reflecting the effort you're putting in. Running helped me, but everyone's different. Make sure you're also in tune with how your body feels. Sometimes those visible changes come at unexpected times.

5