why is this approach so popular? I know that's to optimize maximum muscle gain, and I tried it myself. It did work but the only problem is it required lots of budget.. I spend double on diet during bulking phrase which is quite jialak for me..

thoughts?

Probably many do that coz if they cut too early without sufficient mass they may end up being those twilight skinny guys .

You can't sculpt a big statue if you start with a small rock.

minimum how long to bulk? at least 6 months?

Never have I heard such splendid quote ever .

Well , that's a pretty broad question. For me , i usually target my weight . In other words , i'll reach a certain weight limit then cut ,but that isn't quite effective honestly . Calculate ur needed calories for bulking , too much and u may have more fat than muscles (happened to me due to reckless and blind-less calculations , i took it for granted). Yes u will still gain fat while bulking but probably at a lower count . That's my personal experience .

There's such a thing as culking.

Got.... during newbie year. =( How I miss beginner gainzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.........................................

where most ppl optimize fat gainz ..