STR gains possible while losing BF?

[VSUdude]

I've been searching every source I can find to get a solid answer to this question: Is it possible to make strength gains while losing bodyfat?

I don't mean making strength gains two weeks out from a BBing show or anything; I just mean cutting out 300-500 cals/day and doing light cardio (ie, walking around my neighborhood). I want to continue making strength gains, but I HAVE to trim off some bodyfat.

I know of course that to build more muscle size one must have caloric excess - but isn't muscle strength neuro-muscular? (ie, the muscle isn't really getting bigger, it's just adapting to stress/stimuli)

I might be WAY off, but that's why I'm asking you guys!

Thanks for any input.

 

[Cynical Simian]

Yes. You shouldn't be unhappy if you just maintain your levels of strength or make much smaller increases than when not hypocaloric, but it's definitely possible.

Take a look at the Angelface training theory link on madcow's site.

 

[djeclipse]

Obviously it's not the ideal situation but it is possible.

In the last 4 weeks I've lost 15lbs (from 195-97lbs to 180-82lbs BW), 2.5" in my gut and have been able to pull off a few all time personal PR's.

I made a Deadlift PR, a 3 rep squat PR, and a standing military press PR for 2 weeks in a row.

I have lost a bit in my bench but right now it's worth the trade off to me.

So it is possible but not the ideal situation for making strength gains...

Here is my journal I started dieting about page 4 or so...
http://www.elitefitness.com/forum/showthread.php?t=471637

 

[xblitz44x]

It's possible, but the quicker you need the BF to come off (the more drastic the diet) the more difficult it will be. If it's just a 3-500 calorie defecit you should be able to make some progress with good training and rest.

 

[Protobuilder]

I agree w/ all the above. One thing, it depends on how finely-tuned your strength is right now. If you're relatively new to really pushing your max strength, gains should continue to go up even though you're reducing cals a bit (did for me). But I could see it being VERY different for some powerlifter who's strength levels are finely-tuned, to where he's hoping to set PRs maybe once or twice a year at some big competitions . . . any change might be noticed b/c he's running right at the edge, if that makes sense.