What is calorie cycling?

Calorie cycling involves varying daily caloric intake across the week while maintaining a target weekly total. Training days are higher (for performance), rest days are lower (for fat loss progress), averaging to the weekly goal.

Does calorie cycling outperform constant restriction?

For body composition, calorie cycling shows similar results to continuous restriction of the same weekly average. The primary benefits are improved adherence, better training performance, and enhanced recovery on key sessions.

How much should training vs. rest day calories differ?

A difference of 300-600 kcal between training and rest days is practical. Larger differences reduce adherence and practical meal planning. The weekly average remains the key determinant of fat loss or muscle gain.

Weekly Calorie Cycling Calculator

Calculate a 7-day calorie cycling schedule matching daily caloric intake to training intensity to achieve weekly energy balance targets while optimizing daily performance and recovery.

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Weekly Calorie Cycling Calculator

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is calorie cycling?

Does calorie cycling outperform constant restriction?

How much should training vs. rest day calories differ?