Newb,  HST and cutting weight

[50joe]

Hi all, my first post here!
Found out about HST a few months back from a friend, and I must say its been quite the ride WAHOO
I have been on a long bulk, and hit a good plateu. I made up an HST program, and extended my bulk to let me finish the program. I must say, I haven't seen anything like this since I started lifting. Quite amazing
anyway

I'll be finishing up the cycle (both HST and my bulk) In a few weeks, and will start cutting.
How does HST work out for those of you that tried it while cutting? The one guy I talked to said he is afraid to cut while doing HST, in fear of that he will lose muscle during the lighter weeks while he is on a restricted cal diet. He did HST to bulk, then went back to a 3 day split doing heavy for cutting. I see where he is coming from on that.
But I don't want to assume anything, because HST could be better for preseving muscle during a cutting cycle as far as I know! Any words from experience on this? I'll be doing a carb cycling diet this cycle, with some thermogenics towards the end to cut the last few if needed. I just want to hear what you guys think about HST and preserving muscle while on a diet below mantainence

 

[imported_dkm1987]

From the FAQ "optimzing HST"

Quote[/b] ]Should I modify HST if my goal is fat loss?

HST should not be altered according to caloric intake. Although you will notice decrements in performance when calories and/or carbs are very low, the training stimulus will still be optimized when the program is followed as outlined. While calories are high, the program will optimize the anabolic effects of feeding. While dieting, the program will minimize the catabolic effects of starving (i.e.dieting).

In reality, nutrition should be optimized for the desired goal, then left alone regardless of the training regimen. HST principles optimize the training stimulus. Now, if you go on a fat loss diet and eat too few calories, HST will prevent as much muscle loss as possible because it is optimized for muscle growth. If you are trying to gain weight, HST is still optimized for muscle growth, so HST will ensure the greatest possible gains with a mass building diet.

Here is the only thing I would recommend as far as adjusting the diet:

The purpose of the 15's and early 10's is to flush the tissue with lactic acid and create and accumulation of oxidative byproducts in the cells. In order to optimize this you must be eating a fair amount of carbs. When you eat a lot of carbs the muscle will burn a lot of glycogen, creating lactic acid and producing the desired effect (enhanced tendon strength and functional oxidative capacity). When you get into the heavy 5's and negatives the carbs should come down a bit. Insulin sensitivity declines as muscle damage increases. I would say about 30% carbs during the really heavy weeks is sufficient to support growth.