30 Seconds Summary
The Benefits of Massing

  • The author began using the Renaissance Periodization (RP) nutrition plan to manage weight for competitive weightlifting and CrossFit, moving from a Paleo diet lacking carbohydrate focus.
  • Over time, alongside competitive training, the author experienced weight class changes through planned 'cut' and 'mass' cycles, including massing to 68kg and cutting back to 63kg.
  • The article details a signed-up 'mass' cycle which increased calorie intake significantly (reaching over 4000 calories daily) to promote strength gains while preparing for national competitions.
  • Challenges during the massing phase included psychological effects of visible body changes (such as increased size and diminished visible abs) which conflicted with societal expectations of female body image.
  • The massing phase ended with a strategic switch to a maintenance diet before a cutting phase due to the CrossFit Open schedule, leading to effective weight management for competitive events.
  • Post-massing and cutting, the author successfully weighed in at competitions and maintained strength gains, particularly in leg size and squat capability which were previously challenging.
  • The author reflects on the massing phase as challenging but rewarding, with plans for another mass cycle to prepare for future competitions, and sharing the journey on Instagram.
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