Hey guys, I'm new to this board and i've been looking at some of the stuff here, and you guys are all seem extremely knowledgable so i figured that I could direct some questions your way.

I'm 19 years old, 200 pounds, I've been physically active my whole life. I was a competitive swimmer up to last year, swimming 7 times a week. When i had to quit because of a shoulder injury, I decided I wanted to lift weights.

Now i've never actually done the whole bulk/cut thing, but I am thinking of starting. My only focus really is getting more lean. I've always been a bigger kid. I've got a gut on me, and excess fat elsewhere.

So do i need as long of a bulking phase? Or do i need to do more cutting?

WHat kind of plan should i be looking at? What kind of food is the best for both? I'll be working out 5 days a week, Mon, Wed - Sat in the mornings each time.

Thanks a lot guys i would really appreicate any advice. If this is too much to talk about on here, PM me and we can talk on msn maybe?

Thanks

Bryan