Greetings,
I'm new to the forums, but not new to the planet. Been here longer than I care to admit. I'm a married dad and my slowing metabolism and aches and pains are thwarting my attempts to get "back in shape." I'm 6', 196 and I'm pretty sure my BF% is around 22-25%. I'm not obese, and I don't look fat when clothed, but underneath my disguise is a dad bod extraordinaire. Nay, I'd say it's beyond dad bod and into "built like an oyster" territory. In other words, I'm skinny-fat, with slender Grace Kelly shoulders and wide, Amish, child-bearing hips, all being help up by two old-man-looking KFC legs.
Here's my problem. I want to gain lean mass, while shedding fat, and also increase my strength and functional fitness. My overall weight loss goal is 25 ibs. My lean mass gain goal is undefined. I just want to be strong, feel good and look good, dahlings. Is that too much to ask?
I think the best approach to achieve this goal is probably basic progressive barbell strength training using compound exercises, combined with minimal to moderate cardio, while following a paleo, or near-paleo diet. By the way, although I don't have celiac disease, I am definitely gluten sensitive, although I just love the stuff so damn much. Mmmmm, gluten!
I've toyed with 5x5 Strong Lifts and Body Beast, as well as more Crossfit-style programs, like P90X and Freeletics, and I'm not sure which one is best for me. I used to run a lot, but repeated calf and Achillies strains have forced me to slow to a walk.
Questions:
1. Is it possible to achieve these goals simultaneously, or do I need to cut the fat first, then build the muscle?
2. If muscle gain is my primary objective, then should I focus on the weights and forego the bodyweight exercises for now?
Thanks in advance, all!
