What is Bulking Season and How to Succeed in It
Author: Coach Nick BookDo you want to develop your muscle mass and size? Do you feel like you're putting in a lot of effort, but seeing minimal results? If that's the case, it's essential to understand that fitness and building muscle is a long-term commitment, and it requires the right approach to see the desired results. This is where bulking season comes in. So, let's dive deeper into what bulking season is, how to make the best out of it, and succeed in meeting your fitness goals.
What is Bulking?
Bulking is a term used in the fitness industry to indicate the process of consuming more calories than you normally would to gain weight and increase muscle mass. It's achieved by consuming more food than what your body burns, giving your body enough nutrition to build muscle. The increased calorie intake should be balanced with exercise that targets muscle growth. Bulking season typically lasts from three to six months.
Calorie Tracking
One of the essential aspects of bulking is calorie tracking. Without it, it's challenging to know how much you're consuming and how it's affecting your progress. The process of tracking your calories helps you ensure that you're eating enough to gain weight while adding muscle.
Workout Routine
While bulking, consuming calories alone isn't going to help you achieve your desired muscle size. Consistent strength training is an integral part of bulking since it encourages your body to build muscle that relies on the extra calories you're consuming. Compound exercises can help build muscle mass, such as squats, bench press, and deadlift. Ensure to have a workout plan that targets each muscle in your body.
Supplementation
Supplements aren't a prerequisite for bulking, but they can be beneficial and complement your overall approach. Protein supplements such as whey protein help ensure that you're meeting your daily protein intake requirements. Other supplements include creatine, which helps in muscle growth and recovery, and beta-alanine, which boosts endurance during exercise.
Rest and Recovery
Lastly, it's essential to rest and recover. The rest period is when your body rebuilds muscle most effectively. Therefore, it's critical to have an adequate amount of sleep each night and allocate adequate time for rest between your workout session that targets the same muscle group. Remember, fitness isn't a sprint; it's a marathon.