Matt, I normally only get around 10-12 pounds heavier after a contest as a rule.
I have slipped up recently (see other thread),but I generally stay pretty lean year round as just like you,I`m a smaller guy and I don`t have a huge appetite though it is humongous compared to what it once was.
As a kid I was the proverbial 98 pound weakling(literally),with the metabolism of a hummingbird and the genetics of a miniature poodle!
One thing I always did which helped me to eat more was as I was sitting down to eat after training,I would think to myself,I have to eat more and I have to eat better food or all my hard work in the gym will be for naught.
I never would`ve eaten the foods as a kid that a bodybuilder needs to make progress but I forced myself to all the while thinking that if I did it would simply make me better which of course it will and it did.
Do some cardio if you are trying to increase food intake (all I ever do is walk on an inclined treadmill for 30-45 minutes,sometimes less depending on my goals or how I`m looking or feeling),don`t let too much of your new weight just be useless fat.
you are one strong fucker and another 10-15 pounds of mass will make you incredibly stronger.
I must say though,go light at times and try to perfect your form.
Oh another thing,any organization that allows hitching a deadlift and calling it a good lift needs to be shut down.
Powerlifting was once a great sport until all the suits and bridging annd helping hands from spotters etc. etc. entered the picture.
I`d rather bench a legit 300 pounds that 500 with some fucking suit because it`s just not a true indication of my real strength.
