A Teen's Weight Journey: Balancing Cutting and Bulking for Optimal Results

Introduction

The weight loss journey can be a daunting task. It takes a considerable amount of dedication and hard work to achieve your desired body weight, especially for teens who are in the crucial period of their physical development. Reddit user RockyMountainCF, a 16-year-old boy standing at 5’9’’ and weighing 130lb, had been cutting for a month and was torn between continuing the cut or going for a bulk.

Cut or Bulk?

Cutting entails reducing one's body weight by shedding off excess body fat. On the other hand, bulking involves gaining muscle and bodyweight, sometimes intentionally accumulating some fat in the process. RockyMountainCF desires to have defined abs in the future, which is why he is considering a continuation of his cutting journey. Nonetheless, he is worried that he might get too skinny if he continues to cut. If he chooses to bulk, RockyMountainCF is afraid of getting fat. This is where body fat percentage (BF%) comes into play.

Body Fat Estimate

Unfortunately, it is challenging to estimate one's body fat percentage without proper tools such as calipers or underwater weighing. However, an estimation of body fat can be approximated by the naked eye or a picture. Reddit user [deleted] suggested that RockyMountainCF should stop cutting and bulk up to 160lb, then consider a cut. It will allow him to gain some muscle mass and become stronger while keeping his body fat percentage low enough to show those sought-after abs.

Balancing Act

The journey to achieving your desired physique is a marathon, not a sprint. For teens such as RockyMountainCF, it is critical to find a balance between cutting and bulking. Overweight teens should prioritize losing weight first, while underweight teens can afford to bulk up. The key is to be patient and avoid taking shortcuts. A balanced diet and a structured workout plan are paramount to achieve long-lasting results.

Conclusion

RockyMountainCF's weight journey serves as a reminder that cutting and bulking are mere tools that must be utilized in moderation. A balanced approach can yield the optimal results. Teens should seek guidance from professionals or do thorough research before embarking on weight loss or muscle-building journeys. In the end, RockyMountainCF's decision should be based on his personal preference, goals, and overall well-being. After all, it is his journey, and he has the power to guide it however he sees fit.