Getting fat in the winter
 

Now I have an excuse for getting fat in the winter. Well, almost - there's no winter in Miami...

http://jcem.endojournals.org/cgi/content/full/85/9/3065

These researchers found that in the winter humans have higher activity of a fat-storing enzyme, and in the summer - higher activity of the same enzyme but in muscle - with fat-burning functionality.

good cal
 

That's why I bulk-up every winter. LOL. Why fight it?

Either that, or I hate dieting through the holidays.

Eat up, lift hard, and get big. Clean it all up starting January 1. Start cutting hard March 1.

Re: good cal
 

Thats exactly my thought process. :D Winters are for bulking.
I want to get down to 5 percent bodyfat and then put on about 20 pounds before my next cutting cycle. Maybe I'll be able to put on the mass that I want in a year and maybe not. I'll just keep on eating and lifting big until I hit my goal. I don't give a damn if I have to eat and look like a pig through next summer.

Trainerdan,
what protein/carb/fat ratio do you use when bulking?
I like to use 30/50/20 ratio with pretty clean foods but watch out on Saturdays because I will literally eat anything and everything in site. Sometimes on Sundays too. :D

close
 

My ratios are pretty close to that. And I do the same thing on Saturdays. Anything that isn't tied down or moving is fair game. LOL.

Actually, deep into the bulk (Nov-Dec), EVERYDAY is like that. As long as I get my protein in (1.5 grams per lb), anything goes.

It worked for me last year, and this year should get me to goal. After I clean up, I think I'll be happy and maintain a tight 230.

Maybe ...

"These researchers found that in the winter humans have higher activity of a fat-storing enzyme, and in the summer - higher activity of the same enzyme but in muscle - with fat-burning functionality"

I could have told you this. Fortunately, when the temps dip to the single digits one is forced to wear so many layers of clothing, that the weight gain goes virtually unnoticed. I hope you guys stay the course whilst you suffer those harsh winters in Florida and New Jersey. :p