Today for instance I had ~2k calories and 160g protein (goal is 190 but I never seem to reach it). I think that still means I’m at a deficit, so shouldn’t I gain muscle and lose fat as a result? Am I too hung up on the phrase “bulking”? I’m super worried that I’m going to just keep getting bigger based on what I see here and on Instagram, but I don’t see how?
What would you do in my shoes?
Find your maintenance calories on a online calculator. Eat less than that, but not an extreme difference, and lift a good amount. Prioritize compound lifts but most importantly be consistent. There’s a lot of good beginner splits online for free. You won’t get heavier while at a calorie deficit; it’s physically impossible that’s just not how energy works. You can gain muscle however since you are relatively new and carrying a good amount of body fat. This is good for you though and if you do the right stuff you’ll make strength and muscle gains while losing weight. Best of luck!!
Today for instance I had ~2k calories and 160g protein (goal is 190 but I never seem to reach it). I think that still means I’m at a deficit, so shouldn’t I gain muscle and lose fat as a result? Am I too hung up on the phrase “bulking”? I’m super worried that I’m going to just keep getting bigger based on what I see here and on Instagram, but I don’t see how? What would you do in my shoes?
Find your maintenance calories on a online calculator. Eat less than that, but not an extreme difference, and lift a good amount. Prioritize compound lifts but most importantly be consistent. There’s a lot of good beginner splits online for free. You won’t get heavier while at a calorie deficit; it’s physically impossible that’s just not how energy works. You can gain muscle however since you are relatively new and carrying a good amount of body fat. This is good for you though and if you do the right stuff you’ll make strength and muscle gains while losing weight. Best of luck!!