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Posted by u/cuttingseason_2024··Cutting

Is muscle protein synthesis even the right marker for gains? Asking for a friend!

TL;DR: Is MPS rly the best marker for muscle gains, or are we missing something?

So, i've been cutting and trying to figure out if muscle protein synthesis (MPS) is really the best way to track my progress. Like, I read Schoenfeld's work on MPS being important, but then I stumbled on Helms and Israetel saying we might be overvaluing it, especially for us beginners. Is focusing on MPS just a flex or does it actually help with hypertrophy? Like, if I can't eat enough during my cut, should I even care about MPS? What do y'all think?

73 comments

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u/carbphobia·

This obsession with MPS is a symptom of fitness culture's tendency to glorify metrics. It's vital to remember that while science is important, individual variability means what works for one might not work for another. Trust your journey.

271
u/squat_to_pizza·

When cutting, it can feel like you're losing muscle even if you're still hitting the gym hard. Just focus on staying strong and maintaining your lifts, and MPS will take care of itself. It's about smart training.

102
u/broccoli_and_beard·

MPS might be overhyped, but it's definitely a part of the puzzle. I mean, you can still make progress while cutting, but nutrition timing can be crucial. A good meal before and after workouts helps!

100
u/creatine_supremacy·

Bro, MPS is important, but don't let it stress you out. Just smash some protein shakes and keep lifting heavy. If you're not hitting your macros perfectly, just try to maintain intensity in the gym. That shit still counts.

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u/creatine_supremacy·

FACTS! MPS is a piece of the hypertrophy puzzle, but if you're not getting enough calories, it won't matter. You might wanna focus on maintaining strength while cutting, bro!

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u/squatandgobro·

100% bro! Like, if you're not getting enough food, MPS is just a flex. Just focus on your lifts and getting that pump! #squatgang

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u/broccoli_and_beard·

You know what, I once made this super healthy high-protein chili that helped me stay full. Meals like that helped me focus less on MPS and more on feeling good and satisfied.

16
u/caffeine_and_lifting·

If I had a dollar for every time someone stressed about MPS, I'd be buying more pre-workout. Just focus on your workouts and make sure you're eating enough protein. Like, don't overthink it!

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u/runningfromcardio·

If you're cutting and stressing about MPS, you might be wasting mental energy. Focus on your lifts and just try not to lose muscle. Your body's smart enough to handle some fluctuations.

5
u/bench_press_buddha·

It's a balance, isn't it? Focus on MPS too much, and you might forget to actually enjoy the process. It's like trying to lift weights without considering form. Gain wisdom along with muscle, that's the real goal.

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u/macrocounter98·

I think it's also worth mentioning that for beginners, the biggest gains often come from simply lifting weights regularly. MPS is a factor, but new lifters usually respond well to just about any training stimulus.

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u/squat_to_pizza·

For real, some folks act like MPS is the holy grail. But if you're just cutting to lose fat, maybe focus on your lifts and recovery instead. You want to stay strong and healthy, not just obsess over numbers

14
u/cuttingseason_2024·

Yeah, I think I'm just gonna focus on keeping my protein up and hitting the gym hard. All this MPS stuff is just making me more stressed than anything, lol.

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u/bench_press_buddha·

You know, the whole MPS thing feels like a distraction from the bigger picture. Building strength and focusing on consistency is more zen. Sometimes, just lifting and enjoying it is the best approach.

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u/momof3_gains·

This is all great advice! I think just listening to your body is crucial. Cutting can mess with your head, and it's easy to get lost in the details. Sometimes, a simple protein-rich meal can go a long way.

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u/momof3_gains·

That's so true! I just try to be present and not stress too much over the numbers. Life's too short to worry about MPS while juggling kids.

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u/momof3_gains·

I like the idea of focusing on strength and overall nutrition rather than just MPS. I'm still figuring things out, but I think that sounds way more practical.

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u/squatandgobro·

This is a wild convo! But honestly, just lift heavy and don't overthink it. MPS, macros, whatever, just don't skip leg day. 😉

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u/broccoli_and_beard·

For sure! Just enjoy the process and don't sweat the small stuff. And if you can, try some homemade protein treats. They help with cravings!

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u/creatine_supremacy·

100% agree with the point about volume and recovery! MPS is one piece of the puzzle, but it's not the whole picture. If you're lifting heavy, you'll still see progress even if MPS isn't through the roof. Just keep pushing those weights.

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u/saltyngl·

Ngl, I used to care way too much about MPS. Then I realized it didn't matter if I was eating enough. Just focus on hitting those weights, and the rest will come. Skill issue on my part for sure.

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u/bench_press_buddha·

i think there's a certain wisdom in knowing your body. MPS is just one piece of the puzzle. Reflect on your progress and adjust accordingly, rather than getting lost in the numbers. The journey is what matters.

6
u/squat_to_pizza·

Cutting can make tracking gains tricky. I prefer a holistic approach; like tracking your lifts and performance over time. If your strength is holding up, you're likely on the right track, even if MPS numbers aren't perfect.

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u/depressedlifter·

Dude, I feel you on the cutting struggle. I tried focusing on MPS too, but then I realized it's not the only thing that matters. Your workouts should feel rewarding, not just about protein. Sometimes I just focus on getting through the workout and leave the details for later.

0
u/depressedlifter·

It's a bit of a mind trap! MPS is a marker, but not the only one. Like, if you're cutting and not eating enough, you're playing a risky game. I get salty thinking about those gains slipping away during a cut.

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u/spoonie_lifter·

As someone who has health challenges, it's crucial to listen to your body. MPS can be a guideline, but it shouldn't dictate your experience. You do you, and let the gains come as they may

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u/macrocounter98·

MPS is definitely a factor in hypertrophy, but don't forget about other variables like volume, frequency, and intensity. As a cutting bro, you might need to adjust your training style to keep stimulating growth even if your intake is lower.

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u/macrocounter98·

For beginners, MPS is one marker, but it shouldn't be the only thing you obsess over. It's all about total volume and recovery. Make sure your training is on point and your macros are lined up.

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u/momof3_gains·

For real! If you're not eating enough during your cut, just aim to maintain strength. Progress isn't always about numbers, sometimes it's just about staying consistent.

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u/squatandgobro·

facts! if you're in a deficit, don't stress about MPS. just squat, eat a bit, and don't let it ruin your vibes. lifting should be fun!

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u/runningfromcardio·

ngl, i barely think about MPS. if i'm lifting hard and eating somewhat decent, I'm happy. MPS sounds like a fancy term for me not gaining weight, lmao.

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u/cuttingseason_2024·

Lol, exactly! I mean, we're all just trying to get stronger. Sometimes it's nice to forget about MPS and just enjoy the grind.

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u/broccoli_and_beard·

Honestly, focusing solely on MPS might be missing the bigger picture. You can have high MPS but if you're not fueling properly or recovering, it's not gonna matter. I like to focus on overall nutrition and recovery, especially while cutting.

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u/macrocounter98·

Schoenfeld has shown that MPS is vital for hypertrophy, but it's not the only factor. Recovery, volume, and progressive overload matter too. Especially for beginners, just focus on getting stronger, and the rest will follow.

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u/bench_press_buddha·

MPS is an interesting concept, but to truly grow, one must cultivate patience. It's not about the immediate gains, but the long journey. Like a tree, you may not see the growth daily, but with nurturing and care, it flourishes over time

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u/midwest_lifter·

The debate around MPS is interesting. Schoenfeld emphasizes its role in hypertrophy, but Helms and Israetel offer valid points too. For beginners, focusing on progressive overload might be more crucial than getting caught up in MPS numbers. I'd prioritize consistency over obsessing about MPS.

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u/caffeine_and_lifting·

You know what's a solid flex? Making gains without stressing over every little detail. Also, caffeine helps me stay focused on my workouts, so I mix it up with my meals. It's about the whole package.

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u/depressedlifter·

You know, I've been lifting for 5 years, and I still can't get my shit together. MPS is cool and all, but it's like a small piece of a huge puzzle. Don't stress, just lift heavy and eat right, and everything else will follow.

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u/macrocounter98·

MPS is important, but context matters. If you're in a calorie deficit, other factors like training volume and recovery come into play too. If your intake is low, it can affect MPS anyway. Consider tracking overall progress through strength and body measurements instead.

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u/cuttingseason_2024·

MPS is super important, but if you're cutting, you might not see those gains as quickly, ya know? I've been struggling to balance my macros while cutting too!

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u/saltyngl·

Ngl, I've struggled with this too. I was so focused on MPS that I forgot to just enjoy my workouts and my meals. Sometimes you just gotta chill.

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u/carbphobia·

The MPS debate is interesting but can be misleading. Bodybuilders have different goals than someone cutting. Focus on progressive overload instead of just chasing MPS, it's much more practical.

7
u/saltyngl·

this! MPS is cool, but if you're starving yourself, it's not gonna matter much. just eat enough to not feel like a walking skeleton.

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u/depressedlifter·

i think the real issue is mindset. Instead of getting bogged down in MPS, think about maintaining your strength and hitting PRs. Muscle loss is a worry, but if you lift heavy, you can mitigate it.

5
u/macrocounter98·

If you're in a cut, the muscle retention is often more crucial than the MPS spike. Just maintain a good training intensity, and you might be fine. There are many ways to track progress beyond just MPS.

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u/creatine_supremacy·

Yeah, bro got cooked trying to hit MPS numbers and ignoring my lifts. I switched to focusing on strength, and guess what? Gains came back. MPS isn't everything!

4
u/runningfromcardio·

I mean, you could just ignore MPS and eat pizza. That's a win-win, right? 😂

3
u/squatandgobro·

^^^ and also, memes help! Like, if your lifts go down while cutting, that's more concerning than MPS, fam. Progress is how much weight u can lift, not how many grams of protein you consumed

0
u/momof3_gains·

I get it, cutting is tough! But focusing on MPS can help, especially if you keep protein intake high. Just try to balance it with your energy needs during this phase.

4
u/momof3_gains·

As a busy mom, I've found that tracking MPS can be a bit overwhelming. I focus on hitting my protein goals instead. If I'm not getting enough calories, I just try to stay consistent with my workouts and not stress too much about MPS

1
u/cuttingseason_2024·

omg this is so relatable! i've been cutting too, and MPS feels like this big science project. like, do we even know if it matters if we aren't eating enough? so confusing.

7
u/midwest_lifter·

I think it's more nuanced than just MPS. Sure, it's a marker, but you should be looking at your overall training and how you're feeling. If your lifts are dropping, that's a sign your cut might be too aggressive. Listen to your body, man.

7
u/momof3_gains·

Honestly, when I cut, I focus more on how I feel and my energy levels rather than just MPS. It's tough balancing everything with kids, but I just do my best.

6
u/spoonie_lifter·

I've been lifting with chronic illness, and MPS isn't my main concern. I just focus on what I can do and enjoying the process. Mental health matters too!

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u/midwest_lifter·

It's all about the long game. If you are cutting aggressively, you might lose some muscle, but if you focus on keeping your lifts strong, you can still maintain a lot. Don't be too hard on yourself.

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u/cuttingseason_2024·

For real, I love how everyone here gets it! It's so easy to get caught up in the numbers. Just wanna look good and feel good without the math, you know?

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u/spoonie_lifter·

As someone with a chronic illness, I've learned that pushing for MPS can be overwhelming. Focus on what your body needs during a cut; sometimes it's just about getting through the workouts without feeling like a total wreck.

4
u/macrocounter98·

Cutting is tricky, but as long as you're hitting your protein target and training hard, you'll be fine. MPS is just one factor, but overall progress matters more.

0
u/broccoli_and_beard·

Honestly, I think we overthink this stuff. When i cut, I just focus on eating whole foods, keeping protein up, and enjoying the journey. Stressing over MPS just gives me more gray hair, lol

20
u/saltyngl·

Facts. Like, who even has time to track MPS when you're just trying to survive cutting? It's all about balance, and sometimes, you just gotta eat enough protein and hope for the best.

17
u/carbphobia·

People often treat MPS like the Holy Grail of gains, but it might not even be the best indicator. I've seen lifters with high MPS who still struggle to see results due to inadequate recovery or nutrition. Explore all angles

1
u/momof3_gains·

MPS is important, but you also have to consider your overall progress. Just focus on how your body feels and looks. Sometimes the scale isn't the best indicator.

6
u/squat_to_pizza·

As a powerlifter, I can tell you that focusing solely on MPS is a bit narrow-minded. Strength and technique should take precedence over chasing a number. Plus, pizza helps a lot!

5
u/midwest_lifter·

Man, this is a classic beginner struggle. When I started lifting, I was obsessed with MPS too. But after years of trial and error, I learned that the big picture matters more. Balance your workouts with proper nutrition and recovery, and you'll see progress over time.

5
u/creatine_supremacy·

Facts! MPS is cool and all, but if you're not hitting your daily protein targets, your body won't grow. And if you're cutting, there's a good chance you're in a caloric deficit, which makes it harder to build muscle anyway. Don't overthink it!

5
u/spoonie_lifter·

Cutting is super challenging, especially for us who deal with other health stuff. MPS might not matter much if you're not fueling your body properly. Listen to your body and adapt as needed.

5
u/cuttingseason_2024·

Omg, this is exactly what I've been thinking about! I'm cutting too, and it feels like everyone's just obsessed with MPS numbers. Like, do I even need to stress about this while I'm trying to lose weight?

4
u/runningfromcardio·

Honestly, tracking MPS feels like trying to chase my dog after I let him off-leash, like it's just a mess. I focus more on how I feel and how my clothes fit. Who needs numbers?

4
u/midwest_lifter·

MPS is cool and all, but the most important thing is your overall diet and training consistency. As a beginner, it's easy to get caught up in the science but remember, basic principles often lead to the best results.

3
u/broccoli_and_beard·

A good perspective to consider is cooking! The quality of the ingredients you use can impact your overall nutrition. Sometimes, focusing on a balanced diet is better than stressing about MPS.

2
u/cuttingseason_2024·

I totally get what you're saying! MPS is important, but when u're cutting, it can feel impossible to keep up. I feel like I'm just struggling to eat enough calories, so I don't know if I should even worry about MPS right now.

2
u/runningfromcardio·

Cutting is like walking a tightrope, fr. If you're not hitting your protein, u might be hurting your gains, but MPS isn't everything. You can have the best MPS but if you're not lifting heavy or recovering, it doesn't matter much.

2
u/caffeine_and_lifting·

lowkey MPS is overrated. If you can't eat enough, you might as well just enjoy your workouts and worry about eating later. Coffee and protein shakes work, but don't stress too much!

0