u/GreaterPathMagi

I just completed a six-month cut. It took me longer than it should have because I was not on a very massive deficit, and I wasn't as committed to my cut as I should have been. That said, as I was not on a very hard deficit, I thought I would finish my cut without losing muscle mass. That does not seem to have been the case. I estimate that I lost at least 2 to 3 pounds of lean mass. I'm currently on maintenance, but would like to try and build back the lost mass. I have come here that perhaps the collective knowledge of the sub can help me.

Further information: 52 years old, male, 5'11", 175 lbs. 13% BF. Using both MF and MFWO. Eat mostly whole foods, with only suppliments/performance enhancers of protein powder and creatine.

How long should I stay on maintenance?

I tried bulking last year, and gained about 8 lbs. After the cut to get lean again it was a net negative experience. When I go back to a calorie surplus, how can I make sure I am not disappointed again?

Hello. I am finishing up a quick cut after another bulk that didn't seem to work very well for me. I have gone on a number of bulking phases at .5 lbs per week of gain for 12 to 18 weeks, but I don't seem to actually build lean mass.

I want to do my next bulk differently and just go with 10% over maintenance. Is there a way for MF to calculate my bulk based on Maintenance Intake + a number or a percentage of my daily calories? I only see how to do it by weight gain per week. Do I need to do the math of Maintenance * 10% calories per day * 7 days and then 3500 calories in a pound of fat / 10% number of maintenance and give it a number I'm happy with?

Just looking for an easy way to actually make lean mass gains with my bulk. Thanks.