Weight is something everyone seems to be concerned about. Losing pounds, kilograms, body fat etc. Whats the alternative, well more and more we’re told to take pictures and look for visual difference rather than chasing numbers. Is one right and the other not?What’s the right thing to look for?
For me scales have their place. Don’t treat them as the antichrist but they’re not the saviour to everything. They’re not the only way to track your progress but one of many that can be utilised. We like to see improvements otherwise we get bored of something, that’s why progressive overload is so important. When it comes to our weight whether it's a number or visually we document it and then track the improvements over time.
Now your goal is to lose fat, the best way to do this is in a calorie deficit. How do you know that’s working? You take a picture, however two pictures 5 minutes apart can have the whole world of difference. One could have a pump or tensing, the lighting could be different, one could be edited etc. We’re told more and more don’t compare yourself to people on social media, because they make sure they use the best lighting and the best angles to hide their imperfections. So if you are going to use pictures don't do the same and make sure you remain consistent with the shots. What about body fat scales, well they’re not always accurate, they pretty much give you a ball park figure. Something to just note, a certain percentage shouldn’t consume your fitness journey because it can look different on everyone. End of the day the things you sacrifice and the time spend in trying to lose a few percent can actually decrease the enjoyment in life. Something to think about.
Anyway back to the scales. I propose this, use them but know it’s place don’t banish them to the bottom of the cupboard for all eternity. Use a photo as well but don’t obsess with it if you don’t see any improvements. Bear in mind your weight could go up with you losing fat because your muscle mass could increase. Your weight can be influenced by so many things: water weight, whether you’ve been to the toilet… So you need to measure at the same time everyday to get the best results. The body fat % you measured on your scales could be incorrect but know a decrease from an incorrect amount will still be a decrease. Track it but don’t obsess with it, if something doesn’t seem right analyse what you’re doing and adjust. A good addition could be as well taking measurements of certain areas you want to improve (chest, waist, bicep, quads etc.).
Numbers don’t equal happiness so do a self evaluation scale.
Think are you happier with yourself than you were a month ago. End of the day we maybe our happiest when we’re not as lean as we want and that’s perfectly fine. But what’s more important, enjoying life and being contempt or achieving a goal that may not be optimal for you.
Thanks as always.
Cameron