these pics are relating to this thread:
http://training.fitness.com/weight-t...ert-29487.html

any recommendations would be greatfully recieved.. atm (as you can read from the linked thread) i was cutting, because my main goal was to have my abs shine through like they did 5 years ago.. if i then wanted to get bigger muscle growth i was going to bulk from there.. but for now i thought cutting would be a quicker solution to getting the leaner look i want..

what would you guys do??

If I was you I'd pack on some lean mass right now with a smart bulking approach. You won't have a 6 pack now but come spring time when it's time to shed the winter blubber, you will be much more satisfied with the results.

*bump*

any1 else?

I agree with LV, if you were to cut now, what would you achieve?
It best to get some decent muscle on your frame before cutting back

ok, well i'm more than happy to go that route.. the one thing i struggle with is the diet side of things.. its not that i have a problem with cravings, or not being able to stick to a strict diet, its just getting to know exactley what to eat..

i'm already using protein drinks (2-3 a day), but would you recommend any other supplements in the bulk process? just wondering if those bars and weight gainers are an easier way to make sure i stay on a 'smart' and 'clean' bulk?

what d'u think?

You should get as much from real foods as possible.

Plenty of meat, veggies, brown rice, and wholegrains.

Eat big and lift big, and you will become big :-)

that is good times. best bit of advice i've had on here, and is just the kind of straight forward answer i was looking for!

so i know the calories i need to have each day to bulk, i now know what to eat most of, as for exersices, i'll work up a well split plan and include 2 or 3 cardio sessions.. -i'm gna give HIIT a go 2 times a week for that.. i asked in the HIIT forum, does resistance come into it? only i use a cross trainer and can go quick on it, but it doesn't exactley leave me breathless, whereas if i added resistance it would -what do you think to that?

Don't drink that much protein in suppliment form. There is such thing as too much protein, and if you exeed that you could hurt your kidneys. As mentioned above, try to get your daily requirments in wholesome foods if you plan on bulking and can afford the calories.

I'd say bult. If you cut down right now you'd be too skinny, smaller then just lean. IMO

Wow, you have a REAL similar build as mine, how much do you weigh and how tall are you just curious

as of 03 December 07
(maximuscle.com)

Body Weight In Pounds 138.87
Waist Circumference in INCHES (at navel) 32
Lean Mass: 117
Fat Mass: 23
Body Fat: 16.4

Yeah man... no question, i'd bulk for sure.