A Bit of a Bulk

TinkoTech · 05-02-2007, 10:14 PM

For the past month, I have been training for an adventure race that I am participating in this weekend. The majority of my training has involved running and biking since I recieved short notice of the race and haven't mountain biked in a long time.

After the race, i am looking to bulk up a bit. It will be challenging since I want to continiue my biking and some running. By "a bit", I am looking to add about 8-10 pound of lean mass to my 6'2 180 frame. My timetable is July 4, since I will be headed to California for an entire month that following week.

I know diet is the majority of my success and I plan to follow Berardi's bulking guidelines as best I can.

In trying to figure out the best program for my desired results, I looked into programs by Waterbury, Shuler/Cosgrove, and Defranco. I came to the conclusion that all three programs will work as long as the guidelines are strictly followed.

I have decided on NROL H1 mainly due to testimonals on these boards and the continued support both Schuler and Cosgrove give. After reading the book, I feel the training principles are as sound as it gets, even though it deviates from the "only way to grow if to lift to failure" regiments I believed before.

So, there are a few things I would like some feedback on reagarding by decision.

1. I read about many success stories from NROL, but mainly around weight loss. Anyone have results they are willing to pass on about bulking up?

2. A solid, lean 195 is my ultimate goal and it is going to take a renewed focus considering I am naturally very thin. Do you feel the NROL H1 is the right direction as long as I continue following the year-long scheme outlined in the book?

3. I have searched the internet high and low for info on "Cheap Bulking" Only supps I am taking are vitamins, fish oil, whey protein. I am also trying to save money so I can survive in California. Anyone know of any really good links about bulking on not so big bucks?

ParanoidAndroid · 05-02-2007, 10:22 PM

1.I put on 7 lbs of muscle in around 2 months doing H1. You'll put on muscle as long as you eat enough.

2. Yeah, I would follow the year long scheme. H1 is good.

3. Go to costco and buy stuff in bulk(like huge containers of oatmeal, ect.)Eggs, milk, ground beef, ect. are very cheap and are very nutrient dense.

AFI82 · 05-04-2007, 01:18 PM

I don't think for bulking purposes that lots of supplements are needed. If you're willing to eat, you shouldn't have much trouble. Peanut Butter and nuts seem to be the popular go to item around here.

I second the Costco recommendation, or Sam's if that's what you've got. 5 lbs of lean ground turkey for $10. 3-5lb of salmon for $15. We buy these about once a month, and as long as you package and freeze them appropriately, you don't really have to worry about them going bad.

freefall · 05-08-2007, 11:43 AM

I started at 173 lbs with a goal to bring my weight to 160 lbs. I have completed BI and FL1 and weigh 180 lbs with no major changes in diet. Not that I am complaining. I have lost about 1.5" around my waist; all the weight gain is lean mass and I look better in mirror. I think name "fat loss", is a bit misleading, but I am happy with the results.

Blackjack · 05-08-2007, 01:49 PM

Eat lots of food, but eat nothing that comes in a box or bag. All natural foods - meat, eggs, cheese, vegetables, fruit, and dairy. Everything in the refrigerator (except some fruits and veggies). Eat a lot of fat (read calorie dense) but make sure you're balancing your fats out (sat, mono, unsat)

For workouts, concentrate on getting stronger...muscle will come with that.