How much is too much??

[crazyCAJUN]

I am currently in the bulking process and am on track with my progress (2lbs./week was the goal). Right now I weigh 218 and am trying to decide if I want to continue to run this bulk to the end of December or the end of January.

My question is this, when I start cutting my goal obviously is to maintain the muscle I have gained all the while trying to reduce BF. So, what would be a good pace for this, i.e. 2lbs./wk, 1.5 lbs./wk, 1 lb/wk.? My BF is ~17% and the goal is to get that number down around the 8-10% range. Also how long should I give myself to make this cut as successful as possible (2-3 months, maybe more)?

Your responses are greatfully appreciated.

[beavesmx44]

Last cut I lost 1.5 lbs/week and I lost a little strength but not much. This time around I will be going for 1lb/week in hopes of no strength loss, but I did not let myself get out of shape this time. The biggest factor would be how determined you are because @ 17% you have got a battle ahead of you. If you are willing to dedicate a long period of time go for 1 lb, if your like me and hate to cut then go as fast as you think you reasonably can.

[crazyCAJUN]

thanks beaves, I'm willing to go 1 lb. a week. My main concern is not to lose muscle mass and strength

...anyone else???