Why Moms Don't Need to Stress About Cutting or Bulking

Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have popularized terms like "cutting" and "bulking," turning them into the go-to strategies for achieving fitness goals. Influencers share their progress photos with captions like “Winter bulk time!” or “Shredding for summer!”—making it seem like these extreme eating phases are the only paths to success.

But let me tell you, moms: you don’t need to cut, and you don’t need to bulk. There’s a better, more sustainable way to achieve your fitness goals—one that works with your busy lifestyle, not against it.

The Problem with Cutting

When people decide they want to lose weight or burn fat, the first thing they often think is: “I need to eat less.” The issue is that most people already aren’t eating enough of the proper nutrients—especially protein. Then they jump into these "cuts," further reducing their food intake, leading to:

• Low Energy Levels: Moms already juggle countless responsibilities. A restrictive diet can leave you too tired to manage your day.
• Cravings and Binge Cycles: Cutting calories too much can lead to intense cravings, making it harder to stick to your goals.
• Loss of Muscle Mass: Instead of burning fat, extreme calorie restriction can cause your body to break down muscle, slowing your metabolism.

‍How to Avoid This:

Instead of cutting calories too drastically, focus on sustainable, long-term habits that support your fitness goals as a mom. 

What to Do  and fish:

1. Focus on Lifting Weights

Forget spending endless hours on cardio machines. Instead, prioritize strength training. Aim to lift weights at least three times a week. Why? Because muscle burns more calories than fat, even when you’re at rest. Building lean muscle makes your body more efficient at burning fat without needing extreme diets.

Strength training is especially important for moms because it:

• Builds a strong, functional body to handle daily tasks.
• Helps you maintain a healthy metabolism as you age.
• Supports long-term weight management without yo-yo dieting.

And while cardio has its place in improving cardiovascular health, it doesn’t promote muscle growth the way resistance training does. If you want results that last, make lifting weights your best friend.

As weightlifting is recommended, you can always start with nothing and gradually add weights to your workout routines. You can begin by using a bottle of water or resistance bands.

2. Prioritize Protein

You don’t have to track every calorie or obsess over numbers to see progress. Simply focusing on protein intake can make a significant difference. Protein is the cornerstone of building and repairing muscle, keeping you full, and improving workout recovery.

Aim for 30-40 grams of protein per meal. That might sound like a lot, but small changes can help you get there:

• Add an extra egg or two to breakfast.
• Include a protein shake or bar as a snack.
• Choose lean proteins like chicken, fish, or plant-based options such as lentils and tofu.

Why is protein so essential?

• It preserves muscle during fat loss phases.
• It enhances recovery and reduces soreness.
• It helps you feel satisfied, making it easier to avoid unhealthy snacks.

3. Sleep is Non-Negotiable

If there’s one area where moms often sacrifice, it’s sleep. Yet, skipping sleep is one of the quickest ways to derail your fitness journey.

When you don’t get enough sleep:

• Your metabolism slows down.
• Hunger hormones like ghrelin and leptin become imbalanced, increasing cravings.
• Your body struggles to recover from workouts.

Of course, early postpartum sleep is hard to get, so focus on doing your best.

What can you do?
Prioritize getting at least seven hours of sleep a night. Even if it means skipping an early morning workout occasionally, your body will thank you in the long run. Sleep is critical for fat loss, muscle growth, and overall well-being.

The Truth About Bulking

On the other end of the spectrum, bulking is glamorized as the magic solution for building muscle. But here’s the truth: eating more won’t automatically make you stronger or more muscular.

To build muscle effectively, two key factors are essential:

1. Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or intensity of your workouts.
2. Adequate Protein Intake: Fueling your body with enough nutrients to repair and grow.

You don’t need to eat in a massive calorie surplus to gain muscle. In fact, eating at your maintenance calories while focusing on strength training and protein can lead to muscle growth without unwanted fat gain.

A Sustainable Fitness Approach

Forget the extreme phases of "cutting" and "bulking" you see online. Focus on balance and consistency:

1. Lift weights to build strength and improve overall functionality.
2. Eat a balanced diet with an emphasis on protein to support muscle repair and recovery.
3. Prioritize sleep to help your body recharge and perform at its best.

This approach isn’t just about looking good—it’s about creating a healthy, sustainable lifestyle that supports your physical and mental well-being. As a mom, you’re setting a powerful example for your family. When your kids see you making health a priority, they learn the value of self-care and balance.

Why Cutting and Bulking Trends Don’t Work for Moms

Cutting and bulking might seem trendy, but they don’t fit into the realities of mom life. Between managing your household, work, and family, extreme dieting and rigid eating schedules simply aren’t practical—or necessary.

The fitness industry often pushes these ideas as one-size-fits-all solutions, but your journey is unique. You deserve an approach that honors your body, your time, and your goals.

You’ve got this, Mama!

Let go of the stress of cutting or bulking and embrace a more balanced approach. Build strength through weightlifting, fuel your body with protein-rich meals, and prioritize restful sleep. These habits will transform your fitness journey—without the confusion or pressure of diet trends.

Remember, progress isn’t about following what’s trending; it’s about creating a routine that works for you. So the next time you see a post about a "winter bulk" or "summer cut," smile and keep doing what works for you. Because you’re not here for trends—you’re here for results that last.

You’re not just building a stronger body; you’re building a healthier, happier life for yourself and your family. Every small step you take is a testament to your strength and resilience.

You’ve got this, Mama. Keep going—you’re unstoppable!