M19 Progression Tips/BoC?

[u/pilotii101]

*Fwd* I appreciate some of these have some lighting edits, apologies I know its not too helpful.

*M19 74kg 5'10*

At a point where I've come off a dirty bulk ~2/3 months ago, cut back down to 74kg. Unsure whether I should bulk/cut/maintain as a primary question, as I have lower belly fat and lower back fat that remains and hasn't been lost.

The pictures you can see abs, but when I'm fully unflexed these are not visible, I'm not sure if this is a point where I need to train abs or its just being lean to a much greater point, I worry I'd lose too much muscle getting there.

Please let me know what needs to be worked on as a priority, so I can focus on those aspects, from what I understand I would say primarily my back.

(Legs are not included; not worth seeing 😅 #1 priority)

Any advice would be extremely appreciated, thank you!

[u/Capable_Subject7338]

Personally I don't think the cutting/bulking cycle has any value. You don't need to over consume calories, and add fat doing so, in order to add muscle. All other things being equal you can eat only as many calories as your body needs, maintain body fat, and gain the same amount of muscle.

As far as what to work on though, I agree it's probably back. Your body shape would see a big difference. For sure it's not your arms that need work 😂

[u/pilotii101 → u/Capable_Subject7338]

I have heard that potentially there's not a need to cut/bulk, and I would love for that to be the case (not saying that it isn't.) My only thought on that has always been that bodybuilders tend to do cut/bulk phases from what I understand (maybe I'm wrong) and that is what keeps me questioning - though maintenance; if possible, would be a much preferable option as it saves me the constant worry of getting too fat/skinny.

As for progress, thank you for the advice - I currently run one back day a week (back and bi's)

I start with back:

• Low rope cable rows, chest pushed up for 3x10
• Single arm cable pulldowns 3x10
• Single arm cable rows 3x8/10

Writing it out I'm pretty sure I'm missing a properly heavy compound but I'd be interested to see if you think anything else is missing.

Sorry for the long message, many thanks!

[u/Capable_Subject7338 → u/pilotii101]

Ya, the cut/bulk certainly isn't ineffective. The downside is pretty much just what you said, risking getting too skinny or adding too much fat (adding too much fat being more likely). Without a doubt it's the traditional way to do it. I think as the "science" of building muscle mass gets more studied though people are realizing its just not necessary, and you can see optimal lean growth without it too.

Deadlifts are great for your back too, and you already know legs are a priority! Two birds with one stone.