How to Track Your Health Goals Without Weighing Yourself

Embarking on a journey towards better health and nutrition often involves setting specific goals. While tracking progress is crucial, many individuals find that weighing themselves regularly becomes a source of stress and anxiety. The good news is that you don’t necessarily need a scale to gauge your progress effectively. There are various other methods to track your goals and ensure you’re on the right path to a healthier lifestyle.

Focus on Non-Scale Victories

Often, progress can be observed in ways that aren’t reflected by the numbers on a scale. Celebrate non-scale victories such as increased energy levels, improved mood, better sleep, or changes in body shape. Perhaps your clothes fit better, you have more stamina during workouts, or you’re noticing muscle definition. These achievements are just as significant indicators of progress as the number on a scale.

Measure Body Composition

Instead of fixating on weight alone, consider measuring your body composition. This includes monitoring centimetres lost or gained in various areas of the body. Try using a measuring tape to track changes in specific areas over time. The main measurement would be your waist circumference. The general recommendations are for men <94cm and for women <80cm for reducing potential health risks associated with abdominal fat (e.g. type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases). 

Set Behaviour-Based Goals

Focus on establishing healthy habits rather than fixating on a number on the scale. For instance, set goals such as drinking a certain amount of water daily, consuming a specific number of servings of vegetables and fruits, or committing to a certain number of workouts per week. Achieving these behaviour-based goals can significantly impact your overall health and indirectly influence weight management. Create a chart for yourself and tick them off each day, to really enforce making new habits. Try setting the goal of preparing your lunches for the week. Try this week’s Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad (link recipe). 

Listen to Your Body

Tuning in to your body’s cues can be a powerful way to track progress. Are you feeling more energetic? Are you sleeping better? Are you experiencing less bloating or digestive discomfort? These signs indicate positive changes in your overall health that might not be reflected on the scale but are equally, if not more, important. 

Regular Health Assessments

Consider regular check-ups and health assessments with your healthcare provider. Blood tests, cholesterol levels, and other health markers provide a comprehensive understanding of your overall health, which can be a more accurate representation of progress than simply relying on weight.

Practice Self-Compassion

It’s essential to approach health and nutrition goals with a positive mindset. Don’t be too hard on yourself if progress seems slow or if there are fluctuations. Remember, the journey to a healthier lifestyle is not solely about a number but about overall well-being.

Tracking nutrition and health goals without using a scale is a much more holistic and less stressful approach. By incorporating these methods, you can celebrate achievements and stay motivated on your journey to better health and well-being.