Planning next cycle

[jjsevens]

Just finished my last cycle, got good results but post cycle has been disappointing, if you've followed my other posts I'm struggling a bit with weight, went from 215 at my peak down to 202 PCT. I'm trying to nail down what it could have been so hoping you guys can help me plan the next one a bit better to maximize my results.

Soooooo, 18 weeks off gets me ready to start my next cycle which is basically January. I want to put on as much muscle as possible and know diet will be key so I'll be eating in a surplus all the way through.

I'm currently sitting at around 13-14% bf and would like to start bulking now but am afraid I may get too fat by the time I'm ready to start my cycle in January...... Should I start bulking now or just run at maintenance till I start my cycle then go into surplus?

Should I continue with the beginners cycle of 500mg test per week/arimidex eod/hcg e3days and pct protocols? Maybe add in some var or win which is what I have added in the past?? This would be my 4th cycle.

Finally, once through PCT, when should I get off my surplus and start working towards my cut, ideally I want to get down to 10% and stay there till the next cycle.

Thanks guys for all your help, I'm learning tonnes!

[kelkel]

Not to break the normal dogma (gasp) here about time off = time on + pct stuff, but the reality is that your BW is the best indicator of when it's ok to initiate another cycle. That being said, it's always best to maintain homeostasis for a period of time.

I'm not a fan of bulking for the sake of bulking. I'd always rather just slowly gain muscle without all the resultant fat increase that comes with bulking. Or the infamous "dirty bulk" which is just a f'n excuse for guys to eat shit and get fat. I'm in no way a nutrition or diet guy but unless you're on a diet why would you not eat a slight surplus in effort to gain lbm? If needed increase cardio a bit. Maybe one of nutrition guys (BIB) can chime in here please.

When it comes to your next cycle why not just test and a moderate amount of deca if you've never run it before?

[jjsevens]

Not to break the normal dogma (gasp) here about time off = time on + pct stuff, but the reality is that your BW is the best indicator of when it's ok to initiate another cycle. That being said, it's always best to maintain homeostasis for a period of time.

I'm not a fan of bulking for the sake of bulking. I'd always rather just slowly gain muscle without all the resultant fat increase that comes with bulking. Or the infamous "dirty bulk" which is just a f'n excuse for guys to eat shit and get fat. I'm in no way a nutrition or diet guy but unless you're on a diet why would you not eat a slight surplus in effort to gain lbm? If needed increase cardio a bit. Maybe one of nutrition guys (BIB) can chime in here please.

When it comes to your next cycle why not just test and a moderate amount of deca if you've never run it before?

OK so this what I'm trying to figure out, how much of a surplus would be suitable for cycle or how much of a surplus is recommended? cause ultimately I don't want to get fat, but running at a surplus eventually catches up, so trying to slow bulk, no dirty bulks, done that before and it's not good! I hate cardio, so would like to stay away if I can.....

Well that's what Im here for, what should I try next, how can deca help me, just trying to stick to the protocol, eveyone says wait 5-6 cycles before bringing on other compounds, but if deca is worth a shot, why not.

[Back In Black]

Surplus without getting fat(ter) is individual. Some can eat more than others.

Agree with Kel about homeostasis for a while. When you have a level stay there for 6-8 weeks, let your body get used to the new tissue. Then I would be inclined to go slow. 100cals a day for 10-14 days and see where you are. Then just up 100cals a day when you think you are happy with the results of the previous 100cals increase.

On cycle? Sure you can add more, or at least add cals with less time in between increases. Essentially, if you are gaining weight and happy with any fat gain then up the cals.

Gain for a period and go for homeostasis again. Continual bulking even with a moderate increase will only lead to too much fat gain in the long run.

[kelkel]

OK so this what I'm trying to figure out, how much of a surplus would be suitable for cycle or how much of a surplus is recommended? cause ultimately I don't want to get fat, but running at a surplus eventually catches up, so trying to slow bulk, no dirty bulks, done that before and it's not good! I hate cardio, so would like to stay away if I can.....

Well that's what Im here for, what should I try next, how can deca help me, just trying to stick to the protocol, eveyone says wait 5-6 cycles before bringing on other compounds, but if deca is worth a shot, why not.

BIB chimed in which is what I was hoping for. Re your next cycle it's your decision. I like both test and var or test and deca . I'm currently running sort of a rehab cycle (partially tore my bicep tendon) consisting of 400 T and 250 Deca and absolutely love it. I was off for a year prior to that and this moderate cycle has been great so far. Just keep reading and considering all your options! You've got time.