Cutting vs Bulking: Complete Guide + Calculator for Beginners
The right way to cut and bulk is not only by paying attention to the type of exercise you do, but also through proper calorie intake management for your body.
Understanding Cutting and Bulking
Although both focus on body shaping, cutting and bulking have different approaches. Let's find out!
Cutting

Cutting is a way to reduce fat and maintain muscle mass by restricting calories for a certain period. Generally, individuals who use this method will also participate in cutting exercises such as weightlifting and pull-ups to maintain their muscle mass.
To determine the amount of calories consumed during cutting, the calculation can be done in the following two ways:
Manual Method
With this method, you can determine the amount of calories you can consume by multiplying your body weight in pounds by 15, then subtracting 500–750 calories. This figure is a recommended guideline in obesity management guidelines.[1]
Calorie Calculation Illustration:
- (165 pounds x 15) - 500 calories = 1,975 calories
BMR Method
The first step in this method is to determine the minimum calories your body needs, then relate it to your activity intensity level. Below is the physical activity level table that you can use as a reference.
|
Activity Level |
Physical Activity Factor |
|
Sedentary |
1.2 |
|
Light exercise only |
1.3 |
|
Moderate-intensity exercise |
1.55 |
|
Exercise every day |
1.725 |
|
Regular daily exercise and other physical activities. |
1.9 |
Once you have the final result, you can subtract 500 or 750 from the total calories.
Formula:
- Men: 66.5 + (13.75 x body weight) + (5.003 x height) – (6.75 x age)
- Women: 655.1 + (9.563 x body weight) + (1.850 x height) – (4.676 x age)
Calorie Requirement Calculation Illustration:
- 66.5 + (13.75 x 83 kg) + (5.003 x 160 cm) – (6.75 x 28) = 1,318 calories
- 1,318 calories x 1.2 (physical activity factor) = 1,582 calories
Calorie Calculation Illustration During a CuttingDiet:
- 1,582 calories - 500 calories = 1,082 calories
Bulking

Unlike cutting , which prioritizes calorie reduction, bulking focuses on increasing calories to build muscle mass and develop a more muscular physique.
Of course, the process is also accompanied by muscle-building exercises such as weightlifting, push-ups, and squats.
To determine the amount of calories you should consume during bulking, you can start by calculating your daily calorie needs and adding 200–500 calories.
Daily calorie needs can be calculated using the same formula as cutting, but without subtracting 500 or 750.
Manual Method
- 75 x 15 = 1,125 calories
- 1,125 calories + 500 (additional calories for bulking) = 1,126 calories
BMR Method
- 66.5 + (13.75 x 83) + (5.003 x 160) – (6.75 x 28) = 1,318 calories
- 1,318 calories x 1.2 (physical activity factor) = 1,582 calories
- 1,582 calories + 500 (additional calories for bulking) = 2,082 calories
Recommended Food Menu for Cutting and Bulking

There are several food options for cutting and bulking, such as::
Cutting Menu
Cutting requires eating what? Prioritize foods that are low in calories but rich in nutrients, such as:
- High Protein: Skinless chicken breast, egg whites, nuts.
- Complex Carbohydrates: Brown rice, sweet potatoes, quinoa.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and avocado.
- Vegetables: Spinach, broccoli, and tomatoes.
Bulking Menu
In addition to exercising, the right way to bulk is to increase your intake of high-calorie foods and avoid instant processed foods.
- High Protein: Beef, protein milk, eggs, tempeh.
- High Carbohydrates: Pasta, white rice, potatoes.
- Healthy Fats: Avocado, olive oil, fatty fish, and peanut butter.
- Fruits: Bananas, pineapple, and grapes.
To support both the cutting and bulking phases, in addition to managing calories and food types, maintaining overall health is very important. Sido Muncul Jamu Sehat Pria and Sido Muncul Natural Female Balance are solutions that can help maintain your vitality and body balance during this diet.
Sido Muncul Jamu Sehat Pria
Made with Java pepper, Lempuyang, nutmeg peel, and black pepper to maintain the health of active men with intense physical activity.
Benefits
- Maintains overall health
- Strengthens physical stamina
- Relieves body aches and pains
Directions for Use
Consume one packet every two to three days.
Side Effects
Excessive consumption may cause mild digestive issues such as nausea, bloating, and diarrhea.
Sido Muncul Natural Female Balance

Developed with Indian Camphorweed, Damiana, ginger, turmeric, and Tribulus, it is suitable for modern women who are always active and productive.
Benefits
- Protects women's overall health
- Provides an energy boost
- Improves menstrual regularity and reduces PMS symptoms
Directions for Use
- Two capsules daily, taken at once.
- Not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Side Effects
Excessive consumption or use not in accordance with directions may cause bloating or diarrhea.
The right way to cut and bulk is not only focused on exercise but also on calculating the calories consumed by the body. To make the process more effective, Sido Muncul Jamu Sehat Pria and Sido Muncul Natural Female Balance are smart choices for maintaining vitality during the cutting and bulking process.
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