Progress Without Numbers
Quantifying gains can be a little frustrating. Seeing a scale number go down, or weight on the bar go up isn't the only way you can track your fitness progress though. Some markers of progress are difficult to quantify, and therefore often go unnoticed by gym-goers everywhere.
1. Energy
What's your energy level like first thing in the morning? Notice yourself jumping out of bed or feeling a little less groggy? Don't chalk it up to coincidence, exercise will help you feel more ready to take on each day.
2. Sleep
Many newbies are surprised to find themselves crashing hard at night after starting a new strength and conditioning routine. Through training, you're burning up more of your daily life battery, which leads to better, more restful Z's.
3. Confidence
When you realize you weren't intimidated by the heavy grocery bags, the spontaneous hiking trip invite or casually moved a dozen awkward shaped boxes into the basement. Thank your new found physical confidence.
4. Less Creaky
Several years ago I was playing ping pong with a friend. I ran after a stray ball and quickly bent over to grab it before it rolled under a table. I realized then and there that my mobility work had been paying off. Normally, a rapid duck and reach would seize my lower back up for 4 days. That time, the only thing I noticed was the lack of pain. You'll notice the same thing, but it will take a while. Getting out of the car, going up stairs and other daily tasks become easier as you get stronger.
5. Snowball Effect
Your exercise routine can be a keystone habit - a habit that encourages other more positive choices. By exercising on the regular, you're more likely to walk more, make more conscious food choices, drink more water and appreciate your physical self.
Playing the long game is tough, especially when you feel like you're not making any progress. If you ever find yourself in that boat, which you will, remember, there are other progress markers that are difficult to quantify. Just because we can't assign a number to it, doesn’t mean it’s not important. .
Justin Miner
@justinminergain
