While the number on the scale can provide some insight into your fitness journey, it’s not always the best measure of progress. Weight fluctuates for a variety of reasons, and it doesn’t reflect changes in strength, endurance, or body composition. Instead, here are a few other ways to track your fitness progress without relying on the scale.
Monitor Strength and Endurance Gains
One of the best indicators of progress is an increase in strength and endurance. Tracking how much weight you can lift, how many reps you can perform, or how long you can sustain cardio exercises is a great way to see improvements.
Take Body Measurements
Another effective method for tracking progress is to use a measuring tape. Keep track of measurements around key areas like your waist, hips, arms, and thighs. These measurements can show muscle growth or fat loss, often providing a clearer picture of progress than weight alone. Take your measurements once a month to monitor changes over time.
Pay Attention to How You Feel
Your overall well-being is another indicator of success. Do you feel more energetic? Are your clothes fitting better? Improvements in mood, energy levels, and sleep are signs that your fitness routine is working. Even small changes like climbing stairs more easily or recovering faster after workouts can signal progress.
Look at Your Fitness Milestones
Celebrating personal milestones can be a great way to stay motivated. Did you finally hit your goal of running a mile without stopping? Can you now do 10 pull-ups when you could only do five a few months ago? Setting specific performance-based goals and tracking how far you’ve come is a much better reflection of your progress than focusing on weight alone.
Remember, fitness is about more than just a number. Tracking your strength, measurements, and well-being offers a holistic view of your journey, giving you the motivation to keep going.
Hi! My name is Kimmy B, I am the co-host of the We’reHard podcast. I have a passion for fitness, nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. I’ve always loved working out and staying active but recently found my groove in the fitness industry.