Originally Posted by
gbrice75
Re: the protein - no surprise the 'pure' protein isn't as filling. If you want carbs, add your own. For instance, I always add a 1/2 cup oats to my PWO shake. I just dump em' in raw, then chew and swallow as I'm drinking my shake. I actually enjoy it.
Carbs seem to stick to me. I shouldn't cut them out completely, but I want to reduce as much as possible. I can eat a fatty steak, it seems, with no problems. Do I need to add the oats? I know I do need some carbs and they can't be cut out of a diet completely.
Re: BF measurements - calipers would be a good investment, but you can use 'tools' in tandem to get a good idea of what's going on with your body. How your clothes fit, the scale reading, how you look in the mirror, and most importantly, measurements!!!
This is kind of subjective. First, I'm not 53 years old so I cannot comment personally, as well I would imagine it's very individualistic. Have you had bloodwork done recently? I'd be interested to see where your test levels are at.
I have not had bloods done recently. I am running plenty of Test E.
IMO - unless you plan to compete (you already stated you aren't), it may not be worth the effort. So your saying it friggin hard. Again, that's for you to judge - but I can tell you it's not easy at 37; I can't imagine it's any easier at 53. By 'normal' standards (i.e. nothing to do with bodybuilding), 15% is considered lean. 15% bodyfat is nothing to be ashamed of as a 'regular' guy walking around. Furthermore, if you're carrying some muscle mass, 15% won't look as bad as a soft, muscleless body with the same bodyfat percentage.
What is your current bodyfat again? I have no idea. There's nothing wrong with STRIVING to hit single digit bodyfat, but bearing in mind that you shouldn't be disappointed if you don't get there, this time. I won't lie, age isn't on our side, neither of us. Most of these guys who look the way we want to are late teens/early 20's, and the older ones have likely been training most of their lives. We have to set realistic goals, and if that means baby steps (e.g. 15% to 12%), so be it. Next time might be 12% to 10% and so on. As long as your progressing, and have the desire to continue progressing, that's all that matters, IMO. Hope this helps.