At Crossfit Ceylon, we believe that body measurements are a far better way to track progress than relying solely on bodyweight. While monitoring body weight can be useful for people who are significantly overweight or underweight, those who are closer to their ideal body weight may benefit more from tracking body measurements.
One of the main limitations of using bodyweight as a metric is that it does not take into account differences in muscle mass and body fat. Two individuals may have the same body weight but vastly different body compositions. For example, one person may have a high amount of muscle mass and a low amount of body fat, while another person may have the opposite. Both individuals would have the same body weight but vastly different health and aesthetic outcomes. Therefore, bodyweight alone does not provide a complete picture of progress for those who are closer to their ideal body weight.
Another issue with using bodyweight as a metric is that it can be affected by factors such as hydration levels and the timing of meals, which can lead to fluctuations in the scale reading. This can cause frustration and disappointment for people who are trying to make progress, as the scale may not reflect their hard work and effort.
We understand that many of our members can become obsessed with their body weight, which can lead to self-sabotage when they don’t see the numbers they want on the scale. By incorporating body measurements into our onboarding, mentorship, and nutrition programs, we can provide a more accurate starting point and clear targets to hit throughout the duration of people’s programs. These measurements, such as waist circumference, hip-to-waist ratio, and skinfold thickness, can give a more accurate idea of how body fat and muscle mass are changing over time. This approach is more effective than relying solely on bodyweight, as it allows members to see the progress they are making even if the numbers on the scale are not what they expected.
While bodyweight can be a useful metric for tracking changes in body composition, it is not always the most accurate indicator of progress and is not the only metric to be tracked. By capturing and tracking the right metrics, we can provide a more accurate picture of progress and help stay motivated and on track towards our goals.
Check out this video on how to get started with getting your measurements.