As someone who has gone through being skinny fat, to fat, to jacked, to ripped, I can say this: TRP is right. Lift, as it will change your life. Psychological effects, health effects, forming habits, and developing grit will transfer to other parts of your life.

So, having some mass beats fat, skinny fat, and other average guys without doubt. Chicks will love you also, even if you do not have six pack.

But REAL game changer is when you lower you body fat. I am talking about maximum of 12% for most, but 10 would be more appropriate. In case you are natural, you will have to sacrifice some mass..and you won't be sorry at all. You will look better with lower BF and less mass then with more mass but puffy.

How would I achieve it:

  • 30-45 minutes of intensive cardio after your weight lifting workout
  • 10 minutes of fat-burner-finisher after your weight lifting workout
  • 2-4 times a week HIIT (sprinting of course)
  • drink at least 2 liters of water daily
  • hint for water intake: if you have been not drinking enough water lately, you might be semi - dehydrated, which can cause water retention, in your face as well. In that case for next two weeks drink 4 liters daily and cut salt from your diet as much as you can)

Forget low carb, intermittent fasting, and other popular diets. Usually guys who promote this are juiced and they tell you the opposite. Use classic calorie counting, hit your macros, and do not cheat except one to three meals WEEKLY. And by meals I do not mean stuff 6000 calories from ice cream and pizza.

Ah yes..some motivation that will stop your bulking, very likely.

http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showthread.php?t=159696891&page=1