calculate macros

As a mom, the juggling act between family, work, and personal time can often leave little room for prioritizing fitness. Yet, in the whirlwind of responsibilities, maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes all the more essential.  In this blog post, it’s about way more than just lifting weights or weight loss. I will break down for you the best way to figure out your lean bulk macros so that you can have the body composition that you desire. You may have extra body fat on you that you want to get rid of and you may want to build your lean muscle mass. We’re about to unpack the secrets behind feeling amazing, staying energetic, and boosting your confidence. 

Are you wondering what “lean bulk macros” even means? What it means is you want to “bulk” aka, put on muscle, without also putting on too much fat. Ever thought about how building muscle could be a real game-changer? Here’s the deal: as we age, our metabolism and energy levels can hit a bit of a slump. But here’s the silver lining – by building lean muscle, you can give them a serious wake-up call. It’s like giving your metabolism a turbocharge, keeping you firing on all cylinders. Not to mention, it’s like an investment in your long-term health and vitality.

Macros and Fitness Routines for Moms

Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty – macros and nutrition. Don’t worry, we’re skipping the complicated jargon. Think of macros as the tools that help you steer your body’s metabolism. Imagine your body as a well-tuned engine – macros are the knobs that decide whether to store fat or burn it for fuel. But that’s not all; macros play a starring role in the muscle department too. More muscle isn’t just about flexing in the mirror; it’s like having a 24/7 calorie-burning buddy.

Now let’s talk about how to get the best results with macros. And that will be your fitness routine. Balancing fitness goals with mom life can feel like a full-blown circus act. Especially when your little ones demand your attention non-stop. But guess what the good news is? There’s a silver lining here too. You don’t need to become a gym rat or sacrifice family time. With the right approach, just 30 minutes, 3-4 times a week can work wonders. It’s about working smarter, not longer. The most effective way to exercise as a busy mom is to incorporate workouts that blend strength training and calorie burning. So, even on the craziest days, you’re still making progress.

Understanding Macronutrients and Muscle Growth

Building lean muscle isn’t just about lifting weights at the gym; it’s a holistic process that starts in the kitchen. We’re talking about macronutrients – those three key components: protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Let’s break it down:

Eating the Right Mix of Macros for Lean Muscle:

1. Protein – Your Muscle’s Best Friend: Protein isn’t just for bodybuilders. It’s your secret weapon for muscle repair and growth. As a busy mom, you’re no stranger to multitasking, and protein does the same for your body. Aiming for around 30% of your daily calories from protein will be enough protein to build muscle. That could translate into lean meats like chicken, turkey, and beef sticks – perfect for on-the-go moments. Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and eggs are also excellent sources.

2. Carbs – Fuel for Your Muscles: Carbohydrates are your body’s primary source of energy, and when building muscle, they’re like the fuel for your workout engine. About 30-40% of your daily calories from carbs is a good target. Opt for complex carbs like whole grains, sweet potatoes, and brown rice. These keep you energized, enhance your workout performance, and contribute to muscle growth without unnecessary fat storage.

3. Fats – The Smart Kind: Fats have gotten a bad rap, but they’re essential for overall health. Aim for around 25-30% of your daily calories from healthy fats. Think avocados, nuts, seeds, fatty fish and olive oil. These fats support hormone production and keep your body functioning smoothly.

Prioritizing Protein:

As a busy mom, convenience matters. That’s where high-protein grab-and-go options come in. Beef sticks, yogurt, nuts, and protein bars are your allies. Also, consider having prepped proteins on hand. A stash of cooked shredded chicken or browned ground beef can be a lifesaver when time is scarce. And remember, protein isn’t just for dinner – incorporate it into your breakfast, lunch, and snacks too.

Calculating Your Personal Macro Ratios for Lean Bulking:

Now, let’s talk about personalized macros. No one-size-fits-all approach here. Your body type, activity level, and goals all play a role. If you’re in a calorie surplus to build muscle, a common guideline could be around 40% carbs, 30% protein, and 30% fats. But hey, your body might dance to a different tune, so feel free to tweak these ratios based on what works best for you.

Considering Body Type and Goals:

Your body’s unique. That means your journey is too. Whether you’re naturally lean or tend to carry more weight, your body type affects how you respond to different macros. Also, think about your diet history and goals. Are you starting fresh or building on previous efforts? This could influence your macro breakdown. Remember, it’s about finding that sweet spot where you’re nourishing your body, building muscle, and feeling amazing.

In a nutshell, it’s not about following a cookie-cutter plan; it’s about crafting a personalized roadmap that matches your lifestyle, preferences, and goals. So, go on, load up on protein, embrace those carbs, and enjoy the right kind of fats – all while keeping your unique self in mind. You’ve got this!

Determining Caloric Needs

1. Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) – Your Energy Equation: Think of TDEE as the energy math your body does every day. It’s like adding up everything you do – moving, thinking, even sleeping – to figure out how much energy you need. So, if your TDEE is like a budget, the calories you eat are your spending. If you eat more than your TDEE, those extra calories become savings (or stored as fat). Eat less, and you’re creating a deficit, using up those stored calories.

2. Factors That Affect TDEE – Activity, Resting, and You: Your TDEE isn’t fixed; it changes based on a few things. First, there’s your basal metabolic rate (BMR) – the calories you burn while just existing, like a car idling. Then comes your activity level – how much you move around. More movement means more calories burned. Finally, your body type plays a role too. Muscles need more energy, so if you’re building them, your TDEE goes up.

3. Caloric Surplus and Deficit – Balancing the Equation: Imagine your body is a seesaw. To gain muscle, you need a little more weight on one side – that’s a caloric surplus. You’re eating more than your TDEE, giving your body extra energy to build muscle. On the flip side, if you want to lose fat, you tilt the seesaw the other way. That’s a caloric deficit. You’re using up more energy than you’re eating, so your body dips into those stored calories, including fat, for fuel.

In a nutshell, TDEE is like your daily energy bank account. It’s a mix of your BMR, your activity, and your unique self. If you want more muscle, you tip the balance with a surplus. If you’re aiming to lose fat, it’s a deficit. It’s all about finding the right equation for your goals.

The Role of Protein:

Protein isn’t just for bodybuilders; it’s your ally for muscle growth. Aim for around 0.8 to 1.2 gram of protein per pound of your body weight to give those muscles the support they need. Protein becomes your superhero during both surplus and deficit phases. When you’re eating more to build muscle (surplus) or eating less to shed fat (deficit), protein helps you hold onto your hard-earned muscle. Think foods like lean meats, eggs, Greek yogurt, and beans – perfect for busy moms looking to fuel their bodies right.

Calculating Macros for Lean Muscle Gain: Lean Bulk Macros

1. Personalized Macro Calculation – Beyond the Calculator: In the world of lean muscle gain, it’s not just about plugging numbers into an online macro calculator. While these calculators seem handy, they often overlook the unique factors that make you, well, you. I believe in a more personalized approach, one that takes into account your body type, diet history, and personal lifestyle (and don’t forget the whole breastfeeding thing too!!) That’s why, in my coaching business, I guide moms through a transformative journey to calculate their own macros.

2. Unleash the Power of Your Macros – The Macros for Mamas Way: Forget the cookie-cutter approach – every mom is on her own journey. I teach moms how to take the reins with Macros for Mamas, a course designed to empower you. You’ll dive deep, exploring your goals, your history, and your preferences. This isn’t about numbers; it’s about understanding your body’s language. You’ll find the right macro balance that works for you.

3. Crafting Your Own Macro Blueprint – Step by Step: Here’s the scoop: my coaching guides you through the process of creating a macro blueprint that’s as unique as you are. We don’t stop at percentages – we focus on grams, the real nuts and bolts of macros. In this experience, we factor in your activity level, your muscle-building dreams, and yes, even your lifestyle. Whether you’re joining my group program or going for personalized 1:1 coaching, you’re crafting a roadmap that’s all you.

In a nutshell, forget the generic. The primary goal is to tailor everything to you. No online calculator can match the power of understanding your body, your history, and your goals. With Macros for Mamas you’re not just calculating macros – you’re unlocking a new level of empowerment and taking charge of your health. 

Crafting Your Meal Plan:

1. The Meal Planning Advantage – Your Muscle’s Best Friend: Meal planning isn’t just a trendy term; it’s your secret weapon on the road to lean muscle gain. Think of it as your blueprint for success. By mapping out your meals, you’re not only fueling your workouts. You’re also providing your muscles with the nutrients they crave. It’s like giving your body a high-five before you even hit the gym.

2. Balanced Sample Meal Plans – The Perfect Plate:

Creating a balanced meal plan doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Think of it as assembling the perfect team to support your muscle-building goals. Let’s break it down into three key players: proteins, carbs, and fats. Mix and match these components to create meals that are not only delicious but also supercharged for muscle gain. It’s best to use whole foods to create your meals, but as moms, we need convenience. It’s totally fine to include things like protein bars, protein powders, and collagen to boost that protein intake! 

Use this sample 1- week grocery list divided into macros, along with some meal ideas below.

Proteins – Your Muscle Supporters:

• Eggs: Versatile and protein-packed, eggs are a staple for muscle growth.
• Chicken Breast (grilled or baked): Lean and rich in protein, chicken breast fuels your muscles.
• Greek Yogurt: Creamy and protein-rich, Greek yogurt supports muscle repair.
• Salmon (baked): Packed with omega-3s and quality protein, salmon is a muscle-friendly choice.
• Chicken: Grilled chicken breast is a go-to for muscle-building meals.

Carbs – Your Workout Pals:

• Oatmeal: Complex carbs in oatmeal provide sustained energy for workouts.
• Mixed Berries: Berries add natural sweetness and carbs to your meals.
• Quinoa: Protein-rich quinoa offers a balanced source of carbohydrates.
• Sweet Potatoes (for roasting): Nutrient-packed sweet potatoes are great for refueling.
• Brown Rice: Nutrient-dense brown rice complements muscle growth.
• Zucchini (for stir-fry): Zucchini is a low-carb option for stir-fry dishes.
• Asparagus (for grilling): Asparagus provides a healthy dose of carbs for muscle recovery.
• Banana (for oatmeal topping): Bananas add natural carbs and sweetness to your oatmeal.

Fats – Your Body’s VIPs:

• Avocado: Creamy avocado offers healthy fats that support muscle health.
• Nuts (such as almonds): Nuts provide satisfying fats for energy and taste.
• Almond Butter: Nut butter offers healthy fats for a nutrient-packed boost.
• Olive Oil: Drizzling olive oil adds heart-healthy fats to your dishes.
• Feta Cheese (for chickpea salad): Feta cheese complements salads with a burst of flavor.

Veggies – Your Nutrient Boosters:

• Spinach: Nutrient-rich spinach is perfect for salads and omelets.
• Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add vitamins and flavor to your meals.
• Mixed Greens: Mixed greens offer a variety of nutrients for salads.
• Broccoli (for roasting): Broccoli provides fiber and nutrients for muscle support.
• Kale: Nutrient-dense kale is great for salads and sautés.
• Chickpeas (for chickpea salad): Protein-packed chickpeas add texture and nutrients.

1-Week Mix-and-Match Meal Plan:

1:

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs (protein) with spinach and bell peppers (veggies)
• Lunch: Grilled chicken (protein) salad with mixed greens, avocado (fat), and quinoa (carbs)
• Dinner: Baked salmon (protein) with roasted sweet potatoes (carbs) and steamed broccoli (veggies)

2:

• Breakfast: Greek yogurt (protein) with mixed berries and a sprinkle of nuts (fat)
• Lunch: Chicken stir-fry with zucchini and brown rice (carbs)
• Dinner: Grilled chicken (protein) with asparagus (veggies) and a side of quinoa (carbs)

3:

• Breakfast: Oatmeal (carbs) topped with sliced banana, almond butter (fat), and chia seeds
• Lunch: Chickpea salad (protein) with kale (veggies), olive oil (fat), and a sprinkle of feta cheese
• Dinner: Chicken breast (protein) with mixed vegetables (veggies) and brown rice (carbs)

Feel free to adapt this meal plan to your preferences and dietary needs. The goal is to create balanced meals that support your lean muscle gain journey while enjoying a variety of proteins, carbs, fats, and veggies. If lean bulk macros is your approach, focusing on choosing your proteins first and building your carbs around that while also incorporating healthy fats is going to be a great start!

The Lean Bulking Approach

When it comes to gaining lean muscle, there’s a smarter way – clean bulking. This method focuses on quality gains without unnecessary fat. Say goodbye to the old-school “dirty bulking” mindset that brought excessive calories and regret. Clean bulking is about precision, giving your muscles what they need without packing on the unwanted baggage.

Benefits of Clean Bulking – Muscle and Metabolism Boost: Clean bulking holds the key to a better physique and healthier metabolism. By gradually increasing calories, you’re providing your body with enough fuel to build muscles while avoiding the roller coaster of fat gain. It’s a win-win – your muscles thrive, and your metabolism gets a welcome boost.

Sculpting a Slight Caloric Surplus – The Goldilocks Zone: The trick to clean bulking? Finding that sweet spot of a slight caloric surplus. You’re not overloading your plate, but you’re also not skimping on energy. It’s like Goldilocks – not too much, not too little, but just right. This way, your muscles get the nutrients they need to grow, and you’re not inviting excess fat to the party.

Mastering Nutrient Timing – Fueling for Fitness: Imagine your body as a high-performance machine, and nutrient timing is your secret fuel. Eating the right foods around workouts can make a difference. Pre-workout carbs energize you, while post-workout protein aids recovery and muscle repair. It’s like giving your body a high-five for its hard work.

Balancing Fitness with Mom Life:

For moms, fitness can be a juggling act, but fear not – it’s manageable. Incorporating wellness into your mom life doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Discover tips to make it work, find exercises that involve your kids, and explore the potential of intermittent fasting to keep nutrition on track even during the busiest moments. If you are recently postpartum and feel like you have hit a plateau, there may be some things you can do in order to get out of that plateau.

Tips for Busy Moms – Making it Work: Streamline your fitness routine with efficiency. Short, intense workouts can be just as effective. Carve out pockets of time, even if they’re brief. Consider involving your kids in your activities – it’s quality bonding time and sets a great example for a healthy lifestyle.

Introducing Intermittent Fasting – A Time-Savvy Strategy: Intermittent fasting offers a solution for moms on the go. There are many different ways to do this , and it’s important to note that it may not be best for all women. If you find that this would work for you, by limiting your eating window, you’re freeing up time for family and productivity. It’s not about skipping meals; it’s about optimizing meal timing to align with your schedule. Just another tool in your busy mom toolkit.

Home Workouts and Kid-Friendly Activities

​Home workouts and kid-friendly exercises are game-changers. They allow you to be present for your kids while staying active. Engage in quick home exercises or create mini workouts with your little ones. It’s a win-win that lets you embrace motherhood and fitness simultaneously.

Your Journey, Your Way

Starting on the journey to lean muscle gain as a mom is about personalization, balance, and consistency. The first step is to determine your ideal macro ratio – the foundation of your nutrition. The second step is to focus on strength gain and preserving your muscle if in a calorie deficit. Then, adapt it to your mom life. It doesn’t need to be picture-perfect; what matters is your commitment and how you FEEL. Remember, it’s not about chasing perfection; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that makes you feel your best. Your journey, your rules, your victories.

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