From Skinny to Bulky: a Redditor's Weight Journey From 180Lbs to 205Lbs and Back

Introduction

For some people, gaining weight can be as hard as losing weight. Reddit user mitchniens shares his six-month journey from weighing 180lbs to 205lbs, then back down to 195lbs. In this article, we'll dive into his progress, fitness routine, and diet plan.

The Bulking Phase

From March to June 2021, mitchniens focused on gaining muscle mass and eating in a caloric surplus. He trained with a 5-day split workout routine, doing heavy compound movements such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses to maximize muscle hypertrophy. His diet consisted of high-calorie, high-protein foods such as steak, chicken breast, rice, and vegetables. He also tracked his macros closely to ensure that he was hitting his protein, carb, and fat requirements.

The Cutting Phase

After reaching his goal weight of 205lbs, mitchniens decided to gradually lean out over the next few months. He lowered his daily calorie intake and increased his cardio workouts to burn fat while maintaining muscle mass. He also incorporated intermittent fasting into his diet plan to help with hunger management and promote fat loss. His new workout routine included a mix of weight training and cardio, with an emphasis on high-intensity interval training (HIIT) exercises.

Lessons Learned

Through his weight journey, mitchniens learned the importance of consistency and patience. He acknowledged that gaining or losing weight can be a slow process that requires dedication and hard work. He also emphasized the value of tracking progress to stay motivated and accountable. Another lesson he learned is that it's okay to indulge in your favorite foods in moderation, as long as you stay within your overall calorie and macro goals.

Conclusion

Mitchniens' weight journey is a prime example of how dedication, hard work, and smart planning can lead to significant results. Whether you're trying to gain muscle or lose weight, following a proven workout routine and diet plan can help you achieve your goals. It's essential to listen to your body and adjust your plan as needed, but always keep the end goal in mind. Give it a try for yourself and see what progress you can make!