maki wrote:My friends are saying that I'm bulking up since I started with 5x5. But I do not want to get too bulky because i've got a short stature. Will I be too bulky if I continue with 5x5? Is there a way to minimize bulking up? I still want to be stronger and have more lean mass, but I do not want to be too bulky. I've read in this forum about working out with fewer reps, (8x3 at 80-90% 1RM) can I do that?
Will post my workout details after I hit the gym tomorrow.
Why do they say you are "bulking up"? What exactly does that mean to them, and to you?
Do they say this just because you are doing a 5x5 program? Or do they think your clothes fit differently and you look different? Do you agree? Do you clothes fit differently? Are your friends good role models here, and do they know what they're talking about? Are they as strong as you want to be, without being bulky?
In my opinion, it's not so easy to get "bulky" with muscles. It is rather easy to get bulky with fat. If you keep a clean diet, eat sufficient to support the work you do in the 5x5 program, you'll get stronger and you should not add body fat. You may want to take regular photographs of yourself, so you can compare. In addition, I'd strongly advise you keep a food log. Strength is built in the gym, and girth is built at the table. But again, do not eat too little-- you need to eat enough to allow strength gains.
You'll learn a lot by doing the 5x5 program, and watching your diet. You'll be able to tweak and adjust as you go. "Getting big" is not a sudden phenomenon.
But I did. These guys have been a great help and encouragement through some tough times for me and they probably don't even realize it. - Pagangoddess
