If you train appropriately hard, lose weight at a modest rate (0.5–1% of body weight per week), and eat a high protein diet (1 g of protein per pound of body weight), most people will be able to gain some strength and muscle while cutting. The more advanced of a trainee you are, the less likely you are to achieve this. Additionally, it may be difficult to notice muscle gain because body fat is lost from all areas of the body.