Not to be THAT GUY. But, he’s already 4 cycles deep. Regardless of how lean he has been in the past, if he’s 4 cycles deep, he’s not going to listen to someone saying to get off of gear just because he is over what many quote to be the “optimal” bf%.
Even on a cut, gear would be effective in allowing him to maintain more muscle while in a caloric deficit. Additionally, he could even do a full re-comp if done smart.
On top of that, lots of competitors tend to bulk as much as possible in the off season and do a harsh diet down. Granted, most of us are not competitors and we’re looking for gains we can keep. Not just to look good on stage for a couple days out of the year.
I have heard before that at higher bf, aromatization can be a bigger issue, but I’m not sure how valid that is.
Just my 2 cents.
-Nex