Beginner
Clubs & Groups
Cross Training
Events
FAQ
Gear
Injuries
Links
Marathon Walking
Motivation
Nutrition
Racewalking
Shoes
Strength Training
Stretching
Treadmill
Walking Store

THROW AWAY THE SCALE

Yes, you heard me. Get rid of that darn thing. And for that matter why are you looking at that BMI chart. For some reason you are convinced that is a better measure of your success than your weight. But ... it is the same thing. Neither take into consideration your body type, bone structure, or your muscle mass.

If you are working out on a regular basis you have more muscle. Does muscle weigh more than fat? Well, not exactly ... I mean a pound of muscle weighs a pound AND a pound of fat weighs a pound. So why do you always hear muscle weighs more than fat? Think of it this way - A pound of muscle is denser, firmer and takes up less space. Isn't that really your goal ... to be firmer and take up less space?

If you want to measure success there are better tools than the scale. Some are listed below:
  • How do your clothes fit
  • Tape measure
  • Body fat percent
  • Cholesterol
  • Improved level of activity
  • How you feel (mood, do you sleep better, etc.)

    This time when you embark on a weight loss program change your attitude. Instead think of it as a fitness journey. Here are some things that will contribute to your success.
  • If you must weigh yourself do so only once a month.
  • Take your measurements and record them once a month.
  • Add more activity into everything you do. This means park further from the store, take the stairs, do a little jig while running the vacuum, swing with your kids rather than sitting on the bench watching... be creative and most of all have fun.
  • Walk or crosstrain with another forn of aerobic exercise 5 to 7 days a week.
  • Add strength training to your program two to three times a week.
  • Keep a log/or journal of all fitness activities, measurements, food intake, and most of all how your are feeling.
  • Quit dieting. Make healthy food choices, eat 4 or 5 times a day, and drink at least 64 oz. of water each day. I add 8 oz for every 20 minutes of exercise.
  • Find a friend or group for support and motivation. This can be in person or on-line.

    MOVE! FOCUS ON FITNESS AND FUN RATHER THAN WEIGHT LOSS!