Body fat question for competitors

[evander87]

So how much body fat do you carry when not cutting for stage? Are you able to maintain a lean body fat without the use of compounds?

I have a friend that competes and lives no "fatter" than 8% but he blasts and cruises as well as other compounds. I wonder what is a realistic body fat is that someone can maintain without gear all year?

[FireGuy]

Much of it is up to the individual. If you are competing year round or in several shows it's best to keep the bodyfat under 10%. If you are just dieting for 2-3 shows a year (like me) I would try to keep an off season look in the 12ish range. I know some people like to run extended bulking periods off season but I am a very firm beleiver that you can add as much muscle without going over 12% as you can going any higher. Plus the leaner you stay off season the less punishment you have to endure getting into contest shape again.

[evander87]

Thanks for the reply. As far as you know do many competitors stay under 10% on gear or natty? My buddy looks great year round and never goes above 8% but he's always on gear. I wonder if it's realistic to stay sub 10 natty?

[auslifta]

Thanks for the reply. As far as you know do many competitors stay under 10% on gear or natty? My buddy looks great year round and never goes above 8% but he's always on gear. I wonder if it's realistic to stay sub 10 natty?

Thats really dependent on person to person. Yes for some, not for others.

[FireGuy]

I know a few guys both natural and not, who maintain bodyfat percentages below 10% 24-7-365.

[evander87]

Thanks for the replies guys. Time to reevaluate my goals and get on track.

[hankdiesel]

all six abs are visible all year. I don't check my bf% but I assume it's low.