Should You Lean Out Before Building Muscle?
Many people are hesitant to strength train because they fear it will make them look bulky. So they want to cut extra body fat first, then gain from there. By doing this, you’re actually setting yourself back.
If you don’t have much muscle to begin with, then dieting without strength training will just make you look smaller - and not shredded or ripped.
So where do you start?
Our client (pictured here) is gaining lean muscle through proper strength training, a healthy diet and regular activity. Notice he made gains without putting on body fat.
So, if you want to look like your favorite lean, muscular superhero, then combine a healthy diet with strength training. You should do BOTH for best results. There's no reason to do one and not the other.
Here’s an example:
Harry decides he wants to look lean and muscular like his friend Peter, so he eats less and goes running everyday. A couple months later, Harry has lost a few pounds but doesn’t look shredded at all.
Peter wants to lose a few pounds after the holidays. So he lifts heavy 4x / week, eats healthier and cuts back on Aunt May’s Christmas cookies. A couple months later, Peter’s arms are bigger and his abs are showing more.
The clear winner here is Peter. He’s eating plenty of healthy food, losing fat, gaining muscle AND strength. His body composition is improving and he's happy with his results!
Harry had good intentions, but is sacrificing precious muscle gains because he's eating too little and not strength training. His metabolism will suffer and he will eventually grow frustrated from not seeing the results he was after.
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We're pretty sure you would rather go the route Peter is on. This is the kind of program we have our clients on, and they love the results!
So how can you get started?
For beginners, we recommend our Spideyfit At-Home Training Program. You can start gaining muscle and eating healthier today - no gym necessary!
If you've already been working out and are ready to take things to the next level, then come train with us! You can do our Online Coaching program or if you're in Los Angeles, consider Personal Training.
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- Saul and Jaré