My concern though, is I have been cutting at about 1800-2000 cals/day for the past couple months (It is roughly 1200 cal deficit), and for me that is just over what the famine phase calories would be. Should I up my calories this week before hand or just maintain what I am use to by now?
A. Yes, suggest going back to maintenance intake for the week.
Also, while I am expecting to end up putting on a small amount of fat by eating at a caloric surplus during the feast phase etc, I think the muscle gains will be great enough to actually lower my BF%. Am I incorrect in assuming this? Should I lower my BF more before I begin this? I am 220lbs, around 23-25% BF.
A. Natural concern, yes. Famine will likely lower your BF a good bit. Consider tapering calories during feast ala the descending caloric spiral. That way, you'll be less prone to gain bodyfat.
The other strategy is to zig zag between 120% workout days and 100% off days first 2 weeks. 100% and 85% next two weeks and final 2 weeks 100%/70% to finish it out.
That'll get any fat off for sure
During this rest week before famine, can I throw in a few cardio sessions? Not HIIT but intense steady state cardio.
A. Yes, this is fine.
I guess I am just terrified at the thought of having to eat at a caloric surplus, I am coming from 265lbs about 3 months ago and I do not want to go back there. But on the same note I love lifting and seeing the strength gains so I really want to give this a shot.
A. Completely understandable. You are an meso/endomorph yes? I can see where you'd be concerned. The above strategies will get you to where you need to be!
