Scales are a tremendous tool, but to the majority, they are a bar to movement forward. Let us establish when they are effective and when their alternative methods of progress checking must be pursued.
When scales work
Scales: are most appropriate for bodybuilders and number students who don’t react emotionally to numbers but rather analyze them. They weigh themselves daily in an effort to view the trend overall and not day-to-day variations (which can vary by 2-5 pounds by water, food, etc.).
When the scale is getting in the way:
Exercise basics
Newbies will lose fat and gain muscle at the same time. Soon enough, the weight doesn’t budge, although the body becomes leaner and stronger. You might think there’s no progress if you look only at the scale – but you‘re wrong.
How do I know there is a result?
- Is your strength data rising? That's a sign you're getting stronger.
- Is your body changing visually? Take pictures and measurements instead of paying attention to weight only.
Weight is influenced by nutrition
Weight can “leap” due to food. For instance, after a salty dinner or a large dinner on the scales will be +1-2 kg – but not fat, but water.
What to do?
- Don't worry if weight is higher after a party - it's only temporary.
- Check your progress by looking in the mirror, feeling good and measuring, not only the figures on the scales.
What is the appropriate way to monitor progress?
✅ Take a photo every week
✅ Track your gym strength performance
✅ Track body measurements (waist, arms, legs)
✅ Monitor your energy level and mood.
Scales only show one aspect of progress, and even that isn‘t always the real picture. The key is strength, well-being and changes in the body!
