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Local Voices

A Better Way to Measure Weight Loss Progress

Progress can be measured in many different ways. Unlike what most people think, it isn’t as simple as looking at the number on a scale. When you begin an exercise routine, your body is changing in many different ways. Hormonal changes, changes in body fat, lean muscle tissue and hydration levels are just a few of the things that can impact your weight. Here are a few ways to look at progress that will be a much better gauge than looking at a scale…

1) InBody Scans
This is a technology that measures two things very accurately- water and lean body mass through bio-impedance.

Bio-impedance works by measuring electrical resistance across your body. Muscle and lean tissue have a lower resistance to the flow of electricity, so the leaner you are, the lower you measure in terms of impedance. Water has very little resistance to electricity while fat has a high resistance.

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The best way to get an accurate test is to be in a hydrated state, perform the test prior to working out, and at a time when you haven’t consumed any food or drinks (excluding water) for a minimum of 4 hours. To improve consistency, we also like individuals to re-test around the same time of day (every 6 to 8 weeks).

2) How you feel
Do you notice increases in your energy levels or better sleeping patterns? How about more confidence in the way your clothes fit? Are you more optimistic and encouraging on a daily basis? Do you feel like you are a happier, more motivated person overall? Exercise helps in all of these areas, some of which will probably be more noticeable to you than others.

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3) Are you stronger?
A big part of a good exercise program would include increasing your strength. No matter the specific goal, everyone wants to look, move and feel better and getting stronger will help with all three of those. Increases in lean muscle will lead to an elevated metabolic rate (helping to burn more calories 24/7), and tighten and tone your arms, midsection and legs (helps prevent loose or “soft looking” skin). The stronger you are the better and faster you can move around.

4) The other stuff
I truly believe that the benefits to exercise are endless. Other things (some of which are harder to measure) are more health related. Decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, increased focus, improved mood, lower blood pressure, reduction of prescription medications are just a few off the top of my head but the list goes on and on.

Just remember two things: 1) You are always going to be your harshest critic and 2) there are tons of better and more accurate ways to measure your progress than focusing on that one number showing on the scale.

We’d be happy to meet with you one on one to determine a few things that you can track personally to enjoy the success you’ve made!

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