top of page
Search
katelyticsfitnessw

Scales vs Tape Measure

We've probably all done it, weighed ourselves too often, and seen the numbers change +/- (or not change), and become deflated and discouraged when it's not what we wanted or expected.


For a specific 'Weight Loss' goal the number on the scale can be very important for some people, but this can also cause many to give up because what they think they 'should' see isn't what they are seeing and so they assume they have failed.


Your weight is just one aspect of your journey and in a lot of cases, it's not even the most important one. Reaching a certain number on the scale is nice but that number isn't telling you how fit or strong you are. Your scales aren't going to tell you encouraging words to not give up, or cheer for you because you've done all your workouts for the week.


Using measurements can be an alternative to the scales, you just need to make sure you're keeping track of where the tape is placed on all the body parts to ensure the numbers are accurate. e.g with the arms; a good way to do this is to measure from Shoulder to elbow and find the midpoint and note it down, this is the same place you'll measure from every time, etc.


Doing either of these too often can capture your body's normal fluctuations and make you believe you aren't making any progress. If you're doing these checks daily you may not see any results and they could also show gains over losses. I know for myself I can fluctuate by at least 2KGs from Morning to Night. I would suggest at a very minimum doing this once every 4-6 weeks, maybe 6-8 weeks for weight tracking.


When you start exercising, the progress made is happening internally, your heart is learning how to pump blood more efficiently, your body is creating more mitochondria to respond to this change and your muscles are adapting by getting stronger. All of these are things that won't show up in the measurements/scales. They'll show more in feeling more energized, getting better sleep and just overall feeling better.


Progress takes time, not everyone will achieve their goals at the same rate. You haven't failed if you haven't made progress, you fail when you've given up.





11 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page