Gaining weight

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Saint Nick

Lifer
Jan 21, 2005
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Hi everyone. I have made half-assed attempts at gaining weight over the past three years, but with little or no success.

What I have been doing was lifting four times a week and trying to eat 4000 calories a day. I am 6' 5" and weigh about 150lbs. My metabolism is pretty ridiculous so it is hard to eat that much food (both financially and physically).

I tried using some whey protein for protein supplement, but a lot of people said that was a waste. I feel like everything I read online is different so I don't really know where to get good, reputable advice.
 

mizzou

Diamond Member
Jan 2, 2008
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Wow, 6'5'' and 150??? Not a pro, but tons of toast and jam busted my belt the fastest out of any eating habit ive had
 

KoolDrew

Lifer
Jun 30, 2004
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You need to eat more and you need to eat more consistently. There's also nothing wrong with protein shakes, especially if you have trouble getting enough calories and protein in for the day. Start with aiming for 3000 calories a day (this means actually tracking what you eat and weighing your food) and adjust from there if your still not gaining. Aim for 150-200g of protein as well.

Also your routine should be based around the main compound movements - squat, bench, row, chins, military press, deadlift, dips. Anything extra is not needed at this point. Get stronger on these movements and you'll see gains.
 

NAC

Golden Member
Dec 30, 2000
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I'm not as skinny as you, but could always eat as much as I wanted and never gained weight. Then, I continued eating everything I could, and added in a quart of usually whole milk a day. Easily gained 5 lbs a month for three months and then I stopped drinking. Like remarkably easy. Try milk. Start with a few cups a day, and then see how much you need per day in order to gain an amount you are comfortable with.

As Mark Ripptoe said - milk is everything that a growing mammal needs :)
 

Saint Nick

Lifer
Jan 21, 2005
17,722
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Yeah -- I can't say I eat very consistently. I do a pretty good job of eating a balanced diet, at least. Sometimes I eat twice a day, sometimes more. It varies so much.

Is routine bad when lifting? I know the whole P90X craze says "muscle confusion", but is that even real? Could I do P90X along with GOMAD or should I stick to higher weights with less reps?
 

Alone

Diamond Member
Nov 19, 2006
7,490
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+1 for GOMAD. I don't think there's a better, more enjoyable way than drinking an metric ton of milk.
 

Zebo

Elite Member
Jul 29, 2001
39,398
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You need to put stresses on the body that will force it to retain muscle. It's called powerlifting. Need a good spotter. who makes you work and applies proper help. Nothing over 4 reps. 1st rep you should be able to do alone, 2nd rep needs some help. 3 rd a little more. 4th even more. Every lift should feel like a max and struggling and dying. no more than than 3 sets. You'll pack it on.
 
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