Why bother

About ten years ago it became pretty obvious that I'm not one of those guys who will look good bald so I took up weightlifting as a means to improve my appearance. I've followed all the advice. Heavy weights to bulk. Proper form. Good nutrition. Consistent training. Change up the routine. Lot's of protein. But if I ran into someone who hasn't seen me in awhile I'd bet they'd have no idea I worked out. I've been cursed with skinny arms, legs and shoulders. Hard gainer. Tried upping my calories and it all goes to my stomach. Frustrated and annoyed. Sure I'm healthier. But honestly, I'm not doing it for my health. It's pure vanity and I'm failing.

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huh

Nov 19, 2018 at 4:02pm

Have you talked to a trainer? Or your doctor? Maybe you qualify for a little assist, hgh-wise

Anonymous

Nov 19, 2018 at 4:36pm

You sound perfectly healthy. I go to a gym to do martial arts, and the bulked up weight lifters are terrified of us, because unlike them we can fight.

Did you know the human heart can't tell the difference between muscle and fat? That's why weight lifters get heart attacks. Their bodies assume they're fat slobs.

Anyone can bulk up

Nov 19, 2018 at 4:49pm

I was an ultra-skinny guy also but I was patient.
BTW, what worked for me was high reps (sets of 15) and lower weight.
Nice, slow, purposeful reps with strict form ( make sure you wear ear buds with your favourite tunes, it makes a difference)
I know that's the opposite of what you say but I now have a very toned , muscular physique with very little body fat and it definitely shows.
Good luck.

sounds like

Nov 19, 2018 at 5:16pm

someone who says that they have a gluten allergy

8 19Rating: -11

What is...

Nov 19, 2018 at 5:49pm

... "lots of protein." nutrition may not be a linear thing per inch/lb of lean body mass. Consider how much structure you need to support a balloon skin vs. a concrete dome. So the more you need to support, the more you need, and whether that relationship is linear or not, we don't really know. So, how much is lots of protein, 2g/lb?

13 4Rating: +9

Anonymous

Nov 19, 2018 at 6:15pm

Do more cardio. Start jogging/running.

9 17Rating: -8

idiotjoe

Nov 19, 2018 at 6:36pm

I was this. I started lifting at 16. At 32 I looked exactly the same. Then I discovered I had high blood pressure and was at risk of diabetes. So I gave up all the bro science of tons of chicken, eggs and yogurt, and made two big changes. I focused on strength and not aesthetics. Not everyone has the genetics (or enhancements) to be Rich Piana (and I want to live longer). I slowly moved my deadlifts up every week and by the time I approached 2.5 times body weight to my surprise my body started to change dramatically. The other change I made was changing my diet. I went vegan. It worked for me, but I think why it helped was because it forced me to focus on the macros. I can look at any food and know what it will do to my body's composition. That is useful if you want to look strong. Anyway 3 years of vegan and strength focused and I'm ripped and look great.

31 8Rating: +23

I don't think

Nov 20, 2018 at 2:21am

...you're asking for more workout advice, are you? Coming from a woman, your lack of confidence is what's not attractive - whether you're bulky or not. My husband hasn't lifted a weight in his life and I continually see everyone - dogs, kids, guys, check him out. He's just a normal, albeit short dude, also losing his hair. Just pretend you're not, or, even better, that you know you are but you don't care.
unrelated to weight lifting, I second the advice above on finding out what's good for your body, food-wise - eating what you're meant to can make you feel 100% more body confident. If you're skinny, but most of your family isn't, for example, maybe you're not absorbing nutrients correctly? There are plenty of sexy svelte bald guys in the world - beefcake's aren't it, man.

20 9Rating: +11

My husband

Nov 21, 2018 at 9:57am

has also never lifted a weight in his life. I prefer slender guys and don't like the muscle look at all. I like nice eyes and a nice smile, some intelligent conversation and a sense of humour.

creatine

Nov 21, 2018 at 11:53am

It's legal and safe. It makes the muscles retain water for a fuller pump.

11 5Rating: +6

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