Weakness before a show

[riverrock]

Hello All,

Always been way more into strength training and PowerLifting myself, but I'd like to ask a question to competing BodyBuilders.......

When you have done a heavy cutting cycle to bring your bodyfat into the 4% category, are looking great, exactly how weak are you physically? I read an article recently where Jay Cutler said he felt like he was going to faint before the Arnold a couple of years ago due to weakness. I definitely lose stength when I take a few weeks off to trim down and make my weight category, but what about you guys going to 4% BF?

This year will be my last competing in any PL comp, but fancy a potential visit to the darkside after this to concentrate on BB for my own personal satisfaction. I owe it to all them fine ladies here in England!!! However, if I lose too much strength - fuck it!!

 

[Tux]

Depends on the person, the cycle, the length and harshness of the diet, and several other factors. Trying to lean out natty, or something "mild" like eq and test prop at 350/week, I lose some decent strength. However, when I cut from 205 12% or so to 177 and about 7% on 100mg/day of tren and 30mg/day of winny, I lost NO strength, in fact got stronger on a few exercises like deadlifts. I also had a better diet that time and more time to sleep. Everyone's different so you'll just have to try and find out.

 

[Slydog]

I dont agree with Tux at all. Don't take that personal my little webb'd footed friend. This is my second comp and bro when you get to 4% and below you are very weak in the gym and you drag your sorry ass around all day. I believe you'll get the same response from everyone who has competed. The last 2-3 weeks suck and that final week is hell. The guy who usually takes home the trophy is the guy sitting in the corner with a blank stare and sick look. The worst thing to do to a BBer or anyone who lifts weights is to take away his carbs and fat. I'm two weeks out and everyone around me tries to stay away because I'm a grouch and I look like shit. I mean I look great but I look like I feel and that is shit.
Just an example. 3 weeks ago I benched 315 for 15 reps with ease, yesterday I could barely get 8. Man I feel like a pussy but thats the game bro you can't have your cake and eat it too......