Last week, I briefly mentioned the scale. Ugh.
The scale is only an effective tool for people who are obese and have a lot of weight to lose.
Did you know a person’s weight can fluctuate as much as four pounds in one day? So stepping on a scale and feeling frustrated that you’re up ONE pound is pointless. And using scales that measure tenths of pounds is even more ridiculous!
If you’re feeling good, that’s what counts. Maybe weigh yourself once a week if you feel like you need to, but I would go so far as to even suggest you ditch the scale all together. Don’t be a slave to the scale —
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Gal 5:1
In terms of weight loss, there are many factors to consider:
* muscle is denser than fat, so as you gain muscle and lose fat, your body shape changes but the overall “weight” of the body may not.
* how much water are you drinking?
* how much sleep are you getting? 8-9 hours during the night time dark hours is so important
* stress? Cortisol is a tricky hormone. If you are stressed (even just ABOUT the numbers on the scale), your body may have a hard time getting rid of fat.
* female cycle? Yep, it can obviously affect the scale too.
So there are LOTS of factors that can contribute to the numbers issue — but I will go back to the fact that YOU SHOULD NOT WORRY ABOUT THE SCALE!
Seriously – be free from the scale. That number on the scale can’t determine your worth or your health.
Be active. Make good choices. But don’t become a slave to the scale. You are worth so much more than that.
How do you feel about a scale? Share your thoughts and experiences below.
Everyday Faith + Fitness 