How This Reddit User Gained 27 Pounds in 4 Years and Improved Body Strength

Reddit user brandonto shared his weight gain journey from 2009 to 2013. He gained 27 pounds of weight, from 115 lbs to 142 lbs. He also improved his body strength without doing one rep maxes.

Eating healthier food choices

The user shared that he did not track his calories. Instead, he ate healthier food choices like chicken salad, fish, and eggs every day. He also mentioned that eating a little more than usual would make him gain weight, and eating a little less would make him lose weight. While this method may not work for everyone, it worked for him.

Body strength improvement

The user also shared his estimates for his one rep max based on his 8 rep sets. He estimated his one rep max at 175 lbs for flat bench, 205 lbs for ATG squat, and 295 lbs for deadlifts. He stated that he had never done overhead press. He attributed his relatively weak lifts to having a small bone structure.

Tips for gaining weight

One commenter suggested eating three meals a day and adding protein powder to push calorie intake. Another commenter cautioned that the ideal weight for someone at 5'8 is around 140-145 lbs for a leaner look, rather than pursuing a bodybuilder’s heavyweight.

Takeaway

Brandonto's journey shows that counting calories is not the only way to gain weight. Eating healthy food choices and having consistency in calorie intake can make a difference. Additionally, weightlifting and strength training can also help build a stronger and healthier body.