Your Fitness: How do I track my progress at the gym?
Tracking your progress but be realistic. File pic
It is easy to get fixated on certain metrics when it comes to making progress on your health and fitness journey.
While these variables act as helpful outcome measures when it comes to our progress.
It is important we don’t obsess over these without taking time to see the bigger picture.
Scale weight can fluctuate up and down for a variety of reasons that can sometimes be out of our control.
Hormonal changes and stress can be just some of the triggers that may be involved here.
I believe it is important that these metrics are used comparatively and extrinsic factors are considered when unexpected fluctuations do occur.
If you have a log book, have a look back and compare your first few sessions to now. Are you getting stronger? Are you managing more volume? If you think back to your first day in the gym and now, do you feel there has been an improvement.
Can you complete movements with much better form/execution? The likelihood is we have improved in at least one dimension here.
This must be appreciated as it is an empowering realisation.
Overall, how do you feel? Do you feel more confident in yourself and your body when compared to day one? When you walk into a room, do you notice yourself feeling more or less confident in yourself?
Are your energy levels better or worse? I believe there is a lot to be gained on the more subjective side of things here where people don't think about as often!
It can be a tough one to acknowledge, but a very important indicator for progress when it comes down to it.
“There are no constraints on the human mind, no walls around the human spirit, no barriers to our progress except those we ourselves erect” - Ronald Reagan.
In most cases, we all enter this game in the pursuit of feeling healthier and becoming the best version of ourselves at the end of the day!
Lastly, I would also like to clarify that I am not a registered dietician.
All advice disclosed here is simply advisory based on my qualifications as a fitness professional and personal experience and knowledge gained working with individuals and helping them reach their goals.
The advice given is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem - nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician.
Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health.
I hope someone out there found some of this information useful here, just some food for thought.
For any questions in relation to this topic or training, nutrition, etc. or for coaching inquiries simply message me on my business page on instagram @coachedbycashel_ or by email - coachedbycashel@gmail.com
