Toss the Scales

If you are measuring your success or failure by the numbers on the scale, stop! Although it may be helpful to check your weight on occasion, it should never dictate how you feel about yourself.

Some other ways to assess the effectiveness of your fitness plan are simpler and can actually be more accurate.

First, if you have a food/exercise journal, review it. You should be able to see subtle changes in the way you eat. Look for trends that may occur with levels of stress.

For instance, do you see frequency in your exercise regimen change with busier times of the month? Are you reverting back to old eating habits? This is the time to do a goal check, especially if you started a New Year’s resolution. If you still don’t have a fitness journal, get one!

Another way to measure success is by the way your clothes fit. Nothing is more honest than the reflection in the mirror. If your waistband has a little extra room, you are well on your way to losing inches that may not show up on a scale.

A toned, more muscular body may not be lighter, but most certainly looks and feels better that a flabby one. Don’t forget, muscle cells are small and dense while fat cells are large and take up more room.

Lastly, if you are getting compliments about the way you look, you are on the right track. People notice when you are taking care of yourself because it shows everywhere, not just in your saggy drawers. When it happens, that is confirmation that the hard work is paying off. Accept praise and be proud of your accomplishments.

Weighing yourself regularly can be self-defeating and cause unnecessary feelings of failure. I recommend you use more positive ways to measure your fitness goals. Don’t forget to be realistic and patient.

Expect some hurdles but don’t let them prevent you from moving forward; jump over them and never quit!

Please email questions or comments to: suzanne_mcginnis@bellsouth.net.