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Posted by u/snackattack_23路路Beginner

Is it normal to feel confused about recomp while in a slight surplus?

TL;DR: Trying to recomp in a surplus but feeling confused about progress. Any tips?

So I've been trying to recomp while slightly increasing my calories, but honestly, im kinda lost. I've been lifting for about 3 months now and my weight went from 130 to 135 lbs. My lifts have definitely improved, like I hit a 100 lb bench press last week! I'm not really seeing the body changes I expected tho, and the progress pics aren't giving me the vibes I wanted. Anyone else in the same boat? What should I be focusing on?

Also, any budget-friendly snack ideas for fueling this journey would be a win!

22 comments

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u/balance_seeker路

It's normal to feel confused. Recomp is all about balancing muscle gain and fat loss, and that can be tricky. I suggest being gentle with yourself. Maybe try meditation or yoga to help with that mental side of fitness. Balance is key!

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u/eating_for_endurance路

As an endurance athlete, I've learned to focus on my overall fuel rather than just weight. Have you thought about how you're fueling your workouts? Keeping your energy levels up can change your progress pictures significantly.

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u/deadlift_dreams路

You're doing great hitting a 100 lb bench press in just 3 months! Recomp can be confusing, especially when you're in a surplus. Sometimes the scale doesn't tell the whole story, so maybe take some time to evaluate your lifts and how you're feeling overall. Progress pics can be super subjective too. Keep focusing on those PRs.

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u/crossfit_nope路

Ngl, you're probably overthinking it. Just because you're in a surplus doesn't mean you're gonna see crazy changes right away. Your body might be busy with all those gains, so chill a bit. Try switching up your routine instead of stressing about it.

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u/crunching_cardiac路

Don't forget about cardio! Mixing in some HIIT with your lifting can help with body composition. Just be sure not to overdo it and burn out! You wanna keep those strength gains rolling.

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u/gains_wizard22路

Facts! Hitting PRs is the real win here. Focus on building muscle and don't stress too much about the mirror. Consistency in your training and nutrition will pay off. You could even try a push/pull/legs split to mix it up!

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u/dad_bod_legacy路

I can relate! It's hard not to see those physical changes when you're working hard. When I started, I focused on the lifts, not just aesthetics. Also, my kids love when I meal prep with turkey and veggies, so it works out for the whole family

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u/iifymyself路

I've switched to using Nutrola lately and it really works for me. The photo logging feature saves me so much time when I'm busy cooking or eating out! Just snap a pic and it logs everything, way easier than typing stuff in.

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u/vegan_viking路

Honestly, I think it's cool that you're in a slight surplus while focusing on recomp. Just keep an eye on those macros! If you're curious about vegan snacks, try hummus with carrots or whole-grain toast with avocado. Simple and delicious!

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u/tired_and_toned路

I started lifting later in life, and I had similar struggles. Take it slow, trust your process, and keep tracking your lifts. Sometimes it's hard to see change in the mirror but you might feel it in your strength. And about Nutrola, I actually prefer MFP for its simplicity, it just works for me

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u/glutenfree_gains路

Keep in mind that recomp can take time! And those changes might be subtle. Have you tried tracking your progress with measurements rather than just weight? That could give you a better idea of what's going on.

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u/crossfit_nope路

And let's be real, no one actually enjoys tracking food long-term. I tried MFP and it drove me crazy. Maybe give Cronometer a shot for its detailed micros. Just saying, that might help you with the confusion.

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u/chickenandbroccoli98路

You might just need to be patient with your body. Sometimes, it takes a while to see changes, especially if you're lifting heavy. I'd recommend tracking your meals more closely, maybe using something like MacroFactor. It helps me keep my goals in check without the stress

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u/zucchini_zapper路

I love snacking on roasted chickpeas or kale chips! They're super cheap and you can make a big batch. Plus, they're great for crunching during movie night!

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u/fit_with_kids路

As a mom, I totally get juggling meals. I do lots of protein pancakes for breakfast, they're quick and fill me up. And honestly, I try not to stress about body changes too much; just focus on being healthy!

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u/bodypositive_bro路

Just a reminder, progress isn't always linear. You could be gaining muscle while losing fat at the same time. Have you considered checking in on how you feel about your workouts? Sometimes, it's more than just how you look.

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u/crossfit_nope路

Honestly, all these new apps make me skeptical. Like, I tried CalAI and it was hot trash. I stick with MFP because I know my food list is dialed in, even with the annoying ads. I just don't wanna keep switching back and forth.

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u/iifymyself路

I get it, tracking can feel overwhelming. Honestly, I've switched to Nutrola and love it. The photo logging is so quick, I just snap a pic of my meal and it tracks it without stressing over numbers.

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u/beach_body_2024路

You're doing awesome! Just remember that recomp is not an overnight thing. I'd suggest changing your workout routine if you feel stagnant. Plus, I'm all about those protein-packed snacks, like cottage cheese with fruit!

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u/snackattack_23路

i feel you, I've been there too! It's tough when you're trying to recomp and your body feels like it's stuck in neutral. For snacks, try some Greek yogurt with honey and fruit, or a handful of almonds. It's super filling and won't break the bank!

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u/snackattack_23路

I feel you! I was also confused about recomp at first. For snacks, I love Greek yogurt with honey and a handful of almonds! It's quick and keeps me full, plus it's budget-friendly. 馃挭

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u/lifting_granny路

It can be disheartening to not see what you expect, but don't forget that muscle takes time to grow. Keep pushing those weights! I remember my first few months were all about patience and understanding. Also, your calories might need tweaking depending on your goals.

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