Cutting questions

twistedbydezign · 04-23-2008, 04:36 PM

So next week I am going to switch from bulking to cutting. Some questions:

1) What will help me retain as much muscle as possible? BCAAs? Best time to take them?
2) I take a scoop of casein protein + milk before bed. Can I do this while cutting or should I not be eating a few hours before bed?
3) My maintenance level is about 2750 calories/day. Is there an ideal caloric intake range for a good balance between reducing body fat and minimizing muscle loss?
4) Should I be lessening the weight on all my lifts or keep on trying to go as high as I can (i.e. maxing every week)? I am on the Starting Strength program.
5) Is there an ideal type of creatine I should be taking or is regular CM alright? I'm concerned about the water retention in the muscles.

Thanks

If you have any more pointers feel free to tell me.

DJAuto · 04-23-2008, 05:03 PM

1. A clean caloric equivalence. Use cardio to shed the fat, but don't put yourself in a massive deficiency.

2. That is fine. Stay away from large meals before bed.

3. 2600-2750 with an ideal amount of cardio.

4. Unless you are competing, it's fine to train the same way. Do what your program states. Be advised you may loose strength.

5. Individuals usually stay away from creatine during cutting due to the bloating factor in some.

twistedbydezign · 04-23-2008, 05:05 PM

When is the best time to take BCAAs? I hear they are really good for retaining as much muscle as possible when cutting.

Does the 2600-2750 calorie range include cardio (i.e. net total) or is it 2600-2750 before cardio is taken into effect?

If the creatine I'm using doesn't make me bloat, can I still take it?

DJAuto · 04-23-2008, 05:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by twistedbydezign

When is the best time to take BCAAs? I hear they are really good for retaining as much muscle as possible when cutting.

Does the 2600-2750 calorie range include cardio (i.e. net total) or is it 2600-2750 before cardio is taken into effect?

If the creatine I'm using doesn't make me bloat, can I still take it?

Take the BCAA's during cardio.

The range is without cardio. That's what you should be getting in, IMO.

As for creatine, it's up to you.