Those who have embarked on a fitness journey will tell you that keeping track of their progress was one of their biggest keys to their success. Keeping a fitness journal not only helps you keep track of your progress, but also helps you to stay motivated. Seeing the consistent advancement towards your fitness goals makes the journey more tangible and serves as proof that you are on the right track. Read on to learn some of our best ideas for keeping a fitness journal.
Find Out What Works for You
There are dozens of methods for keeping a fitness journal. Not every method will suit your lifestyle or needs, so it’s important to try out a few different methods to see what works best for you. Some people do better with keeping a handwritten journal on paper; others prefer to use their computer or an app on their phone. Search online for various fitness journals and make note of what works best to keep you on track.
Take Your Measurements
Most people who are on a fitness journey use the scale as the main method of tracking their progress. However, sometimes the number on the scale doesn’t match your body’s actual progress. Let’s say you lost five pounds of fat but gained six pounds of muscle over the past month. Your scale would tell you that you have gained weight, but not that the weight was lean muscle mass. This makes it important to implement additional methods of tracking your progress, such as taking body measurements.
Track Your Workouts
Exercise is very important for any fitness journey. The more you work out, the stronger you will become over time. Keeping track of how much harder and longer you’re able to work out each week will give you a visual reminder of just how far you’ve come! Be sure to note how many minutes you performed each exercise, which weights you used, the resistance level, speed, and any other factors you would like to keep track of.
Plan Ahead
A fitness journal can also be used to help you plan your next goals. As you get stronger and more fit, you will want to keep pushing the bar even higher to achieve more over time until you reach your ultimate fitness goal. Making a solid plan towards that goal will keep you focused and on the right track.
Mark Small Changes
When you first start working on a new fitness goal, it’s best to start small. Break the overall goal into daily tasks and write them in your fitness journal. As you complete the tasks each day or week, mark them off. You will be able to see yourself getting closer to your goal with each passing day.
These are just a few ideas to use when keeping your fitness journal. Over time, you will develop strategies and ideas that work best for you. The end goal is to stay on track and never give up on developing a healthier lifestyle.
