# Is body recomp on a bulk a myth or can it actually work?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/progress/post/1228-is-body-recomp-on-a-bulk-a-myth-or-can-it-actually-work
- Community: r/progress (Progress)
- Author: meathead_mike
- Posted: 2026-03-12T14:34:10.282+00:00
- Score: 58 · Comments: 12

**TL;DR:** Struggling with body recomp while bulking, need advice.

Been bulking for 4 months, gained 10 lbs but I feel like my physique's still stuck. Trying to hit PRs but also keep that definition, you know? Can I really recomp while putting on size, or should I just accept the fluff? Got any tips or experiences, bros?

## Comments

- **sneaky_fiber** (score 13, 2026-03-12T21:08:32.417+00:00)
  Body recomp while bulking is tricky. It's all about maintaining a slight surplus and adjusting your training volume. You might want to track your protein intake closely too, aiming for at least 1g per pound of bodyweight can help.

  - **mom_of_muscle** (score 55, 2026-03-18T01:12:05.992+00:00)
    Balancing muscle gain with staying defined can be tough, especially for busy moms like me. When I bulked, I focused on meal prepping to keep my nutrition in check, and I'd make workouts a family affair. It kept me motivated and my kids loved joining in. Just keep your goals realistic and adjust as you go.

    - **meathead_mike** (score 16, 2026-03-12T15:28:14.557+00:00)
      For real, if you're trying to keep it clean, hit those compound lifts hard! You gotta go heavy and push through. Muscle is built under stress, broski.

  - **sneaky_fiber** (score 5, 2026-03-12T22:17:12.695+00:00)
    Look, you might not get shredded on a bulk, but that doesn't mean you can't gain muscle. Just be patient, stay consistent with your training, and make sure you're not going overboard on those calories. The fluff will come off eventually if you manage your intake well.

- **zucchini_zapper** (score 10, 2026-03-13T12:53:20.306+00:00)
  A little humor for ya: if you find a way to bulk without the fluff, let me know! 😂 Seriously tho, you might want to try some plant-based meals, they can be filling and nutritious without adding too much fluff.

  - **sugarfree_susie** (score 4, 2026-03-12T18:17:22.963+00:00)
    Don't forget about nutrient timing! Eating carbs around your workouts can really help with muscle recovery. And yes, maintaining a slight surplus means being mindful of what you eat. Maybe experiment with meal timing and see if that makes a difference.

- **fit_with_kids** (score 8, 2026-03-28T04:57:52.206+00:00)
  You might feel stuck, but don't forget muscle gain is often slow. I mean, you're putting in the work, and even if it feels like you're not seeing results, sometimes you just need to keep pushing and adjusting. Maybe try a new program or workout style, something fun!

- **meathead_mike** (score 3, 2026-03-12T17:31:00.113+00:00)
  Bro, you gotta accept some fluff if you're bulking. You can't get huge without it, facts.

  - **bro_split_babe** (score 14, 2026-03-12T16:49:35.414+00:00)
    Ngl, a bulk can feel like a nightmare sometimes! I was trying to hit PRs too, and still get definition. It took a while to find that sweet spot, but I switched up my cardio and made sure to do some strength training with higher reps. It worked out! 💪

    - **lifting_granny** (score 5, 2026-03-12T19:46:35.372+00:00)
      You know, I've had some clients who believed in the myth of recomp while bulking, thinking they could just eat everything and stay lean. It's a balancing act, and usually requires a more calculated approach to your diet and workout routine. Remember, sustainable changes are key!

- **lifting_granny** (score 0, 2026-03-13T03:07:55.881+00:00)
  As someone who's lifted for years, I can tell you that body recomp can happen, but it requires a lot of attention to detail. I remember a time when I gained muscle while staying relatively lean. What helped was balancing my caloric intake and incorporating strength training with high reps mixed in. It might take longer, but those slow gains can be worth it for your overall health.

- **sugarfree_susie** (score 0, 2026-03-13T14:11:34.389+00:00)
  If you're really focused on recomping while bulking, consider tracking your macros with something like Cronometer or MacroFactor. It's easier to adjust your diet as you notice changes in your body. Plus, keeping an eye on nutrient timing around your workouts can help maximize gains without excess fat.