Where are you right now? No, I don't mean your location, where are you in relation to your goals? How are you doing? What can be improved? Today i am going to take you through a list that I use to get myself on track.
Tracking Your Results
The answer to “Where are you right now” involves tracking your results. You've set some goals and are working towards achieving them, but how are you doing? By tracking your results you will be able to answer this question at any time. I personally track body fat percentage, weight and circumference measurements. These things all show me a trend. Yes, I am fully aware that it is difficult to measure your own body fat, but it isn't the exact number I am looking for, it is a pattern of results. As long as I track it consistently each week, the results are meaningful. Am I increasing or decreasing the number. As long as the numbers are going in the direction I want we are good.
Making Adjustments
One goal is very important to clarify and that is: are you trying to gain muscle or lose fat? Yes, I know you want to do both and while I agree it is possible, it is more realistic to look at your goals in terms of one or the other being a priority. If your goal is to lose fat (get lean) and you notice that your fat loss number is slowing down, you should look at your cardio and your weight training intensity. Is it time to increase the amount of time spent doing cardio? Should you be more intense with the weights? Make the adjustments that make the most sense to you in relation to your goal.
Don't Be Afraid
People set these goals and then get scared when the numbers say they need to eat more. Yes, eating more can definitely still help you burn fat. It depends upon how your body is responding to the calories and exercise you are throwing at it. More calories may be warranted. Stop being scared. Just do what your body is telling you it needs. You won't go wrong listening to the results your body is producing.
Realize Results are Always Produced
I have spoken to clients who tell me they are “not getting results” and I shake my head. Yes, you are getting results. You will always get results. You just are not getting the results you want. Don't get stuck int he “I am not getting results crowd” but rather, join the “I make adjustments so my results are where I want them” crowd. Ultimately this is all up to you, so make it work.
Where Are You Now?
At this point answering the question originally posed should be easy. Knowing what to do next should also be easy. Just get yourself in the right mindset and the world is at your beck and call.
