The one mistake you probably make when trying to lose weight – and why it’s inches that really count
Losing weight is hard enough as it is, so don't make it harder for yourself - one personal trainer reveals how to get in the zone
WHEN it comes to losing weight there's no quick fix, it's a battle - a pretty tough one at that.
It requires discipline in the gym AND the kitchen - but it turns out there is probably one simple but big mistake you're making.
As with anything in life, you want results and you want them fast.
But, when working hard to shed the pounds, personal trainer Keith McNiven said you need to step AWAY from the scales.
"That mistake, is simply, focusing on the number on the scales," he said.
"When it comes to losing weight, we traditionally measure success by the number on the scale.
"We want to lose a physical amount of weight and we want to step on the scales and see a smaller number.
"While of course, if you're doing things properly you will lose weight, it can be detrimental to focus solely on the scales.
"Because there are a so many other contributing factors, that can show you what you're doing is working."
Here Keith reveals the four things you should really be measuring your January health kick by...
1. INCHES NOT POUNDS
When it comes to losing weight, the rule of eat less and move more tends to work in the long term.
But, it's hard not to get impatient and want to see results instantly.
All too often we focus on pounds and stone lose, when really there are lots of ways our body can change, Keith said.
"Measuring the inches around key areas of your body and monitoring the change in them can be an incredibly encouraging way to notice changes in your body without being disheartened by the number on the scales," he added.
2. STRENGTH OVER NUMBERS
Working out on a regular basis will help you build up your strength.
Paying attention to this aspect of your body and how it changes, can be a key indicator for how you're health kick is going.
Keith said: "You'll notice that you'll be able to life heavier weights, that your stamina will have increased and that you'll be working with more reps as you life, which proves that what you're doing is most definitely working."
3. FIT NOT FAT
Another key way to measure how well your workout routine is going, is to keep a close eye on your fitness levels.
The easier it gets, the better your health kick is going.
"Notice how your cardio gets easier, allowing you to push your body further and for longer," Keith suggested.
"Notice how much longer it takes you to hit the point of exhaustion.
"Notice how much easier it is to walk up the stairs or run for the bus.
"Every improvement in your fitness is a sign you're doing well."
4. ALL THE FEELS
Last bit not least, a huge thing to remember when it comes to working out is how regular exercise and eating makes you FEEL better.
Energy levels will soar, and the positive endorphins rushing through your body after a gym sesh is a great indicator that your health kick is working and making your life better.
Keith added: "If you're not seeing the staggering weight loss you'd hoped for on the scales, but you're feeling better in yourself focus on that and be patient, the rest will come."
...SO DON'T GET FIXATED ON THE NUMBERS
While targets and goals are vital to help track weight loss, Keith stressed there are many different benefits exercise can bring you.
MORE ON FITNESS
He said: "Don't get fixated by the number on the scales, measure your inches, track the changes in your body and notice your fitness improving.
"The journey is long but with hard work and dedication you will get there.
"Hard work always wins."