When starting on your health and fitness journey, it can be very easy to get caught up with the number on the scale. It is important to know that this is not the only digit that matters. By putting too much emphasis on what the scale is saying, you could be missing out on some pretty awesome progress that has to be measured in a different way.
Taking measurements of your body is extremely important. I’m sure you have heard the saying, “muscle weighs more than fat”. Although a pound of fat weighs the same as a pound of muscle, fat is less dense, so it takes up much more room in the body. If you are incorporating strength training as a part of your fitness regimen, which I highly recommend, you could notice the number on the scale getting bigger rather than smaller. Don’t get discouraged if you see this happening because it might not be a bad sign!
Below is a list of my current measurements. I started with my upper body and worked down to my calves. I have decided that I am going to limit myself to taking these measurements only once per month. It is very easy to become obsessed with the numbers and get frustrated when you don’t see changes happening as quickly as you want. Remember, we have to be patient with this process, results will NOT be instant. Realistically, you may not even see any significant results until month 3 or 4. You must be consistent over a long period of time to see significant changes in the numbers.
Body Measurements: November 15, 2020
- Left Upper Arm: 18.5”
- Right Upper Arm: 18”
- Chest (with loose sports bra on): 48”
- Waist: 45”
- Lower Stomach: 52.5”
- Hips/Butt: 52.3”
- Left Thigh: 33.5”
- Right Thigh: 33”
- Left Calf: 16”
- Right Calf: 16”
It doesn’t matter what type of tape measurer you use, as long as it is flexible enough for you to wrap around each body part and doesn’t cause you any physical discomfort. I advise that you don’t suck in your stomach or flex your muscles while measuring. You want your body to be relaxed and in its normal state so you can get the most accurate measurements.
In 2 weeks you’ll feel it.
In 4 weeks you’ll see it.
In 8 weeks you’ll hear it.
It is so important to be kind to yourself during this process. If you are like me and are at the beginning of your journey, these numbers can easily make you feel like reaching your goal is an impossible task. But I promise that if you continue to exercise and eat healthy, the results WILL come. You will be so happy that you can refer back to these measurements and see the amazing progress you are making every step of the way.
