I’ve had a bit of a rollercoaster ride in terms of weight and health. At 29, I was 280+ lbs chainsmoking heartattack waiting to happen. Luckily, I gradually started turning things around at that point. I lost 40 lbs quite quickly, then struggled losing and gaining back the same 20 lbs for a few years thus hovering around 220-240lbs (for reference, I’m 6"0).
Pic above is me 6 years ago, a month or two after I started working out/watching diet a bit. Roughly 260lbs I’d guess (so not at the heaviest I ever was, but close enough and it’s the only shirtless pic I have from those days)
I’m 35 now, and 7 months ago I finally decided to go all in. Discovered bodybuilding and developed a macro based plan reading up across the web. Initially high protein, low carb and moderate fat.
This is me at the start of this cut 7 months ago at 235lbs
I’ve now taken a more carb cycling approach as my training intensified and my fear of carbs subsided. I’d average about 2150 calories daily though as I progressed I also started taking in more calories on heavy workout days and lower on rest days. I’m at on average 2300 calories right now, and still losing about 2lbs/month on this, macro split about 40-40-20.
I started doing full body workouts but have shifted to a more ‘bro split’ approach the past 2 months. 5 days a week following a 2 days ‘on’, 1 day ‘off’ shedule. Not much cardio, about a 30 min jog once a week, and I also bike to work for 30 mins total several days/week.
These are my current shape pics (192lbs), with my best attempts at some poses. Would love feedback and pointers on weak parts that need bringing up.
I personally find the shoulders and lower back especially lacking, and see asymmetry with my right side being more developed. A bit surprised as I do quite a lot of dumbell work, so any tips appreciated! Also tips for lower back development welcome!
Would also like opinions on whether I keep cutting, or if you think it’s time for some lean bulking/maintaining?
thanks!