alternative means of measure

We all chase the scale weight. Everyone get wrapped up in it. I have a GW as well. I'm here to introduce some alternative means to measure ourselves to hopefully give you a better idea of BMIs and why sometimes that needle won't move.

Few things to understand first :

• You CANNOT spot reduce fat.
• BMI is just a general calculation of height and weight. It can be misleading

As Dwayne shows us, his massive manly muscles categorize him as obese. For someone of his height he simply weighs too much. Muscle is denser than fat. However, his Body Fat% is MUCH lower than Ragen's. His lack of both visceral and subcutaneous fat makes him far healthier.

Other means of measure:

Body Calipers: Some diets are more prone to muscle sparing than others. If you're exercising with your diet, you might be gaining muscle and losing fat. While that needle might be stuck, calipers will give you a more accurate reading of your body fat percentage.

Tape Measure: Along the same lines, that needle might be glued in place but some basic body measurements will never lie. I've stalled several times just to see my waist size continue to shrink.

Pictures: Once a week, take a picture in the same room, same lighting, same pose. This method ties everything together and helps us think about our weightloss in healthier, longterm ways.

We've all had those days where we felt like shit. We hate how we look. We don't think any progress has been made. Then our best friend we haven't seen in a week says, "Have you lost weight?!"

How great does that feel!?

We see ourselves in the mirror everyday and its all to easy to miss the very subtle changes. Taking weekly measures and pictures will help you see how you've changed by comparison and keep you focused on your journey.

Remember: It's a race of endurance, not a sprint. :)