Are you tired of putting in all the effort at the gym, but not seeing any real results? It's time to start tracking your fitness journey, my friend! Not only will it help you see improvements, but it'll also keep you accountable and motivated. And who doesn't love a good data chart to show off their progress?
Tracking your fitness progress isn't just about seeing physical changes, it's also about stimulating your brain to focus on achieving your goals. When you track your progress, you activate your RAS (Reticular Activating System), which is like having a personal assistant in your brain that helps you notice relevant information and opportunities that align with your goals. It's like having a coach that cheers you on every step of the way, except you're the one in control of the game plan.
Tracking also helps you set realistic goals, measure your progress, and boosts your self-esteem and self-efficacy. And let's face it, how many of us have actually tracked our progress consistently throughout all our diets and workout routines? Probably not many! But hey, no judgment here – we've all been there. It's like trying to navigate through a maze blindfolded. You might make it out eventually, but it'll take a lot longer and be much more frustrating than if you could see where you're going.
Still not convinced? Consider these studies:
• A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that those who tracked their physical activity had a higher chance of meeting their exercise goals.
• A study published in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine found that athletes who tracked their progress were more likely to reach their training targets and improve their performance.
• A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that those who kept a workout journal saw greater improvements in strength and fitness compared to those who didn't.
So, if you're looking to take your fitness journey to the next level, it's time to start tracking your progress today! Here are 5 fun and simple ways to do it:
1. Take Progress Photos - Sure, taking photos of yourself in your gym gear can be awkward, but trust me, it's worth it. Seeing those non-scale victories is an incredible feeling! Plus, you can always use the excuse that you're "just taking a selfie for the 'gram."
2. Use a Fitness Tracker - Whether it's a smartwatch or an app on your phone, a fitness tracker can be your trusty sidekick in achieving your fitness goals. It'll track your steps, heart rate, and workouts, so you can see how far you've come and what areas you need to work on. And who doesn't love the feeling of accomplishment when they hit their step goal for the day? It's like getting a gold star on your fitness report card!
3. Keep a Workout Journal - There's something satisfying about putting pen to paper and tracking your progress offline. No need to be attached to your phone, and no need to wonder what weight you used last week - it's all right there in your journal. Plus, it's a great way to show off your artistic skills with some cool bullet journal layouts.
4. Set Specific Goals - It's hard to see progress if you don't have anything to compare it to. Set specific, achievable goals for yourself, whether it's running a mile in a certain time or lifting a certain weight. Just make sure you're not setting goals that are too lofty, like bench pressing a car or running a marathon tomorrow.
5. Get a Personal Trainer - Want to take your progress to the next level? Hire a personal trainer! Not only can they track your progress for you, but they can also make sure you're not just going through the motions. Plus, they'll push you to
So, it doesn’t matter how you choose to track your fitness just that you do. Choose a way that works best for yourself so you can progress, stay accountable, motivated, and on track towards your goals.
Let's not forget all the benefits of tracking your fitness journey: activating your RAS to focus on your goals, boosting your self-esteem and self-efficacy, and stimulating your brain to achieve more. And with research showing that those who track their physical activity and food intake tend to see better results, why not give it a try?
So, what are you waiting for? Start tracking your fitness progress today and see how far you can go! Remember, consistency is key, and progress takes time. But with the right tools and mindset, you can achieve the results you desire and enjoy the journey along the way.
