Macro Tracking: Pre Tracking Phase

Each year in February or March I start tracking my calories and macronutrients. By tracking, I mean counting my calories, and weighing my food to count total grams of carbohydrates, protein and fat. This year will be no different and I’ll start tracking my macros soon. A critical piece to tracking your food is actually having a ball park idea of what you’ve been eating most days.

That way, when you start figuring out how many grams of carbs/protein/fat you need, you have an idea and aren’t completely guessing or setting up unrealistic expectations.

I call this my pre-tracking phase. I start taking note of what I’m eating, and will weigh out some things here and there. I’m gathering more information for when it’s time to track for real.

This does two things. Now, I have an idea of what 7 ounces of ground beef looks like, or how much 200g of yogurt is because I’ve practiced, and when I do it for real it won’t feel as overwhelming. More importantly, I have a better idea of my total calories and how many grams of protein I’ve been having, so I use that information to set a protein goal and work the rest of the numbers based on that.

I think of all of this as an experiment. It’s a fun challenge to be consistent, tune into yourself and dedicate time to focus on what I’m using to fuel my body. If you think macro counting is in your future, be sure to plan at least a week for a pre-tracking phase and gather important information to set you up for success.

Justin Miner

@justinminergain