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Three easy ways to measure your weight loss progress

Written by First Stop Health Coaches | Sep 16, 2024 4:34:11 PM

I‍n this blog, our health coaches share 3 easy ways to track the success of your weight loss program.


Overall Weight
You should weigh yourself weekly, on the same day to track your weight loss. For the best results, weigh yourself in the morning after using the bathroom. You should weigh yourself before eating or drinking and be unclothed.

Body Fat Percentage
The body’s mass comprises water, muscle, organs and fat. Fat is the one thing you want to change in a weight loss program. So keeping track of your body fat percentage can be helpful.

Popular methods to calculate your body fat percentage include Skinfold testing, Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis, Dexa Scan, Bod Pod, Underwater Weighing, and several others. These tests can often be properly done by a trained health or wellness professional. Though some tests like the Dexa Scan and Underwater weighing tend to be more accurate, they can be expensive and complex. Comparatively, Bioelectrical Impedance, though not considered exact, can be measured within minutes using a small handheld machine found in gyms and healthcare offices free of charge.

 

Body Measurements
Have you ever noticed that the number on the scale isn't changing but your clothes fit better? This why measuring parts of your body that often contain fat and muscle is helpful! You can track your weight loss success. 

  • Chest: Measure around your chest at the center
  • Waist: Measure around your natural waist (typically above the belly button and below the ribs)
  • Belly: Measure around your torso at belly button height.
  • Hips: Measure around your hips/glutes at the fullest point.
  • Right and Left Arm: Measure around your right arm at the fullest point (typically an inch or two below the armpit).
  • Right and Left Thigh: Measure around your thigh at the fullest point.
  • Right and Left Calf: Measure around your calf at the fullest point.

 

Work with a Health Coach.
Talking with a health coach or registered dietitian works because they work for you! If you're ready to lose weight, our coaches are here to support you. Learn how you can achieve success through attainable goals and actions steps. 

 

 

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