How to overcome bulking anxiety?

To overcome bulking anxiety, it's important to address the mental aspect of seeing body changes. Here are some strategies shared by Sal Di Stefano and Adam Schafer from the Mind Pump Podcast:

1. Shift Focus to Strength: Avoid obsessing over your physical changes by not weighing yourself frequently. Instead, focus on your strength gains in the gym. Measure success by improvements in exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses rather than changes in body weight or appearance 1.

2. Adjust Your Mindset: Understand that during a bulk, your body might retain more water, making you look less defined. Recognize this as a normal part of the process rather than a sign of excessive fat gain. Focusing on strength and performance can help reassure you that muscle is being built 1.

3. Embrace the Changes: Sometimes, the discomfort comes from fear of newness. Embrace the changes in your physique, understanding that each phase of increased strength and size is a step towards your bigger fitness goals. For some individuals, improving their overall appearance includes appreciating their "new" physical form, like more evident muscle curves or general robustness 2.

Remember, bulking doesn't mean indiscriminate weight gain; it's about strategic calorie surplus primarily aimed at increasing muscle mass. If the anxiety persists, consider consulting a mental health professional or a dietitian to address underlying concerns about body image or eating patterns.