How to Track Your Progress

Take Your Measurements

One issue with the scale is that your weight loss or gain comes from a variety of sources, including water. The truth is, a pound of fat will always weigh the same as a pound of muscle. The important thing to remember is that fat is bulkier than muscle and takes up more space under your skin; meanwhile, muscle is more dense than fat. Measuring your hips, thighs, and waist will give you a more accurate picture of your body composition and will reward you for burning fat. Whip out that tape measure once a month to discover the actual results of your hard work.

Never Skimp on Progress Photos

Our bodies go through gradual changes, and if you’re like most people on a fitness mission, you stand in front of the mirror several times a day. Subtle changes are hard to see when you’re so focused on results, but progress photos, compared over time, really highlight your achievements. Have some fun with your pictures and make a short animated morph showcasing the new and improved you.

How You Feel Matters

One excellent way to track your progress is to start logging not just the basic statistics of your workouts and calorie counts, but also how you feel before and after each meal or workout. The more descriptive words you use, like “energized,” “stuffed,” “run down,” or “elated,” the better. These notes in your tracking devices will help you see how your relationship with food and fitness improves every day. Why not try a weight loss diet to give yourself an extra push?

Increased Performance

When you utilize the best exercise tracker, your fitness progress is always right there at your fingertips. It’s easy to see that last week you walked 3 mph on the treadmill and this week you hustled your way up to 3.2. This progress tracking works well with every exercise, such as pushups, CrossFit, swimming, or whatever you’re into.

Monitor Your Blood Pressure

When it comes to your heart, checking your blood pressure can be a sign of positive changes in your overall health. Many exercise trackers offer a companion app for recording your blood pressure. Even if your other indicators don’t change, your blood pressure can show a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease as a direct result of better nutrition, an increase in exercise, and reduced stress levels.

‘Target’ Pair of Jeans

Nothing says success like zipping up that particular pair of “skinny” jeans. Try them on once a month and revel in your progress. You can even hang them on your wall for visual inspiration. That leaner image of yourself is another fabulous motivator for losing weight and working hard toward a healthier lifestyle.

No matter how you choose to track your goals and success, just monitor them. Focus on progress, not perfection and give your body the time it needs to grow active, lean, and healthy steadily.