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Posted by u/vegan_viking··Cutting

Anyone else struggling with body recomp while cutting? Need tips on photos!

TL;DR: Struggling with body recomp on a cut; need tips for progress photos and capturing changes.

I've been on a cut for about 12 weeks now, dropped 10 pounds and feel strong, but I'm having a tough time capturing my progress in photos. My lifts are still climbing, hit a new PR on bench at 225 for 3 reps last week. I'm eating 100% plant-based and sticking to my macros, but my body composition is being a bit stubborn. I swear, one day I look lean, the next I feel bloated!

If anyone has tips for taking progress pics that really show the changes, or how to keep track of body recomp visually, I'm all ears. Also, how do you guys feel about flexing vs. no flexing? Which do you think shows off the gains better? Let's chat!

8 comments

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u/squats_and_sass·

Taking progress pics can be tricky! I always recommend consistency in lighting and angles. Try to take your photos in the same spot, with similar lighting each time. Flexing can definitely show off your gains, but don't forget to capture some relaxed shots too! It's all about showing the full picture of your journey.

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u/grindovermatter·

This! Progress pics can be super misleading, lol. I flex in mine but honestly, the difference is wild when I don't flex too. Just keep taking them and you'll see it eventually!

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u/no_squats_no_service·

Flexing can definitely highlight your muscles, but if you want to track actual body recomp, I suggest relaxed poses too. They show how much body fat you're losing, which is super important while cutting. Sometimes you might look great flexing but not so much relaxed, which is real too.

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u/nonbinary_nutritionist·

I totally get the struggle with photos, but don't let it get you down. It's about how you feel and not just how you look! Try to focus on your strength gains and how you feel overall. Your body will respond when you're consistent and patient.

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u/bro_split_babe·

Honestly, just take a million pics until you get one that looks good. Like, I swear my camera has a vendetta against my gains sometimes. Just keep it fun! Maybe throw on some filters and see what slaps, lmao.

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u/vegan_viking·

Facts! Plant-based cuts can be tough. Make sure your protein sources are varied, like legumes, tofu, and seitan. That's how you keep your lifts up while shedding fat. Also, bloat can be from fiber intake, so watch out for that when changing foods.

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u/iifymyself·

Yep, bloat can be such a struggle. i track my macros with MyFitnessPal, but I also keep a journal. It helps me see patterns with my food choices and how they affect my body. Maybe try logging what you eat and when you feel bloated to figure it out.

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u/keto_kingpin·

Ngl, tracking macros is huge for recomp. I use Cronometer because it gives me a clear breakdown of nutrients. If you're tracking accurately, you might be surprised at how much you can actually eat while still cutting. Don't underestimate the power of nutrient timing!

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