I have been using the Renaissance Periodization Diet (RP Diet App) since August 2019 for weight management. I have done a few cuts and spent a lot of time in maintenance. Going into the 58th birth year, I decided to try a massing phase instead of another cut phase. I have been doing a lot of self-experimentation with training as an “old man.” I am seeing success that I haven’t seen in decades. I have been doing this in a (more or less) eucaloric or hypercaloric state. So, I decided to see what will happen if I adjust the calories up (that is, I allow the RP Diet App to adjust my calories up). Not unexpected, I saw an immediate weight jump because the significant increase in carbohydrates. This, however (and thankfully), soon settled at a lower weight. I discover, though, that eating more is hard.
I have become accustomed to eating a lot of vegetables. Being full—when you are eating healthy—is easy. Boost those carbohydrates (my fats and proteins have stayed about the same), and it is too much food! I actually had to request a reduction in my macros. If I was less cautious about gaining fat, I might shift from vegetables to rice of potatoes. I have grown accustomed to broccoli and cauliflower rice. Of course, there is a lot of fruit, too.
I don’t expect to keep on a massing phase for long. Maybe a month—and back to maintenance.
When it comes to keeping the fat off and fueling exercise, it is all about smart choices. Choose wisely and eat a lot. Choose poorly, be hungry, and still eat a lot—too much. Of course, if you are young and skinny with a high metabolism, eat those foods that will help you eat more. Those of us getting up there in years, there is no reason why we can’t get stronger and gain (or at least maintain) muscle. We just have to make careful choices. Limit alcohol and junk food. Eat the nutrient dense foods that fill and fuel.
Train hard. Eat smart.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!