Make the next check-in useful
Upload a photo to LeanLens, get a confidence-aware read, and use the article framework to choose one practical next step.
At a glance: bulk cut or recomp
| Topic | What to record or compare | Interpretation limit |
|---|---|---|
| Cut | Body fat range is the limiting factor and strength can be maintained | Use a modest deficit |
| Lean bulk | Leanness is acceptable and strength/muscle is the bottleneck | Use a small surplus |
| Recomp | Beginner, returning, or undertrained with stable weight | Use photos, strength, and waist together |
Turn a phase choice into an execution plan
Use the cut-or-bulk calculator for its existing decision preview. This guide covers what to record after choosing a direction: start date, weekly routine, weight trend, waist protocol and a review date.
The related cut, bulk and recomp guide explains the broad choices. Keep this page focused on implementing and reviewing the choice rather than treating it as a competing calculator or an automatic redirect candidate.
Three example starting situations
A beginner whose training is inconsistent may learn more from a stable routine and repeatable records than from switching phases after every photo. A returning lifter can track regained performance while watching waist and weight. A consistent experienced lifter should review the limiting goal and the trend before selecting a new phase.
These examples are decision context, not individualized calorie prescriptions. Medical conditions, medication, disordered eating concerns or unexplained changes need appropriate professional input.
Make the next check-in useful
Upload a photo to LeanLens, get a confidence-aware read, and use the article framework to choose one practical next step.
Define what would make you reconsider
Write down the evidence you will review: completed sessions, repeated weight and waist measurements, performance and comparable photos. If the plan feels unsustainable, reassess the plan rather than forcing the label.
A single higher weigh-in or lower physique score is not a phase-change rule. Use the recomposition log and progress photo app to compare a sequence with consistent conditions.
Limits and safety
LeanLens content is informational fitness guidance, not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Photo-based analysis should be used for trend direction and practical next steps, not clinical decisions.
FAQ
Should a body-fat estimate decide my phase?
It can be context, but a single uncertain estimate should not decide an entire nutrition or training phase.
How do I know if the chosen phase is working?
Compare the goal with several consistent records: adherence, weight, waist, performance and photos. Decide in advance what you will review.