I started a CKD to lose some fat, and reveal the actual gains, on 14 Jan. My mid-section has already hardened up and people have noticed that I am looking a lot leaner... it's strange 'cause the fat is dropping quite easily - more than likely this is a result of a higher metabolism from an increase in LBM.
Last week I dropped down to 235 - and too me, I look like I am at about the same bodyfat I was at when I initiated the short cycle - or leaner. After carb loading I am back up to 244. The before picture for the cycle was at a depleted 220... so right now, since I am hitting 235 depleted... that equates an additional 15 pounds.
So - have I carved all fat? My strength numbers are nearly identicle to what they were at 250+ pounds. I am significantly stronger when comparing them to my 220-pound condition...
For example - the flat bench press (no spot, no forced reps) during my power training days following a carb load with bodyweights:
- Pre-cycle @ 230 lbs, 27 Oct I did 365 for 5 reps and 5 sets;
- Post cycle, 23 Dec @ 250 lbs, I did 415 for 4 reps and 5 sets;
- Several weeks post cycle, 3 Feb @ 244 lbs, 405 for 4 reps and 5 sets.
Remember, the first shots (frontloaded) were on 2 Nov and the final shot of TE was on 8 Dec...
So what can I conclude? I am bigger, getting leaner and maintaining strength/muscle quite well. Was a month long enough to produce anything significant? For me - yes. Was it is easy to come off? For me, deffinitly. Are the gains solid? For me... yes. Will I do this again? Soon...
I think after I finish this CKD fat loss program for a few more weeks - aka, priming period - I will slam myself with another short/heavy cycle again... hopefully bagging another 15 pounds and a stronger output...
I'll try and get some new pics for comparison reasons this week...