5 indicators that your health routine is working

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As a weight loss coach, I have worked with many people for over a decade who are discouraged because the scales don’t move or move fast enough.

Weight loss doesn’t happen overnight, but you will gradually notice more subtle signs that you are making progress in the right direction.

If you’re wondering whether or not your fitness routine is actually working, here are some pointers to look out for that have nothing to do with the number on the scale.

You are in a better mood

Physical and mental health are closely related, and an improvement in your mood is often the first positive change you will notice from exercising. Once you have a consistent workout plan in place, you may find yourself feeling happier and more satisfied. Studies show that exercise and life satisfaction are correlated, which means that people who play sports feel better about themselves and their lives.

Exercise increases dopamine and adrenaline, brain chemicals associated with feeling happy and confident. Physical activity also plays a role in reducing anxiety and stress. So acknowledge any changes you are feeling in your mental health as a sign that your routine is working.

Many of my clients believe that taking a walk every day makes them feel better. So, know that intense weight training or cardio is not required to get the mental benefits of exercise. Moving your body for a certain amount of time each day can help you in a better mood. If you’re new to fitness, taking a daily walk can be a positive first step.

Housework is easier

It used to be a pain walking up and down the stairs with the laundry. But now you do it with ease. This is just one example of housework that feels lighter as your cardiovascular health and strength improves.

Vacuuming, putting away clothes, washing dishes, doing gardening, or even chasing your kids around can feel a lot easier. Getting in shape means your body has to work less and use less energy to do everyday activities. The laundry basket may even feel lighter when in reality you are only gaining strength!

You don’t crave junk food that often

Do you feel that exercising will make you eat healthier? When we start exercising and feeling better, it is common that we want to wean ourselves off junk food naturally and instead want to feed our bodies with healthy foods. So if you find yourself passing the trash and reaching for more fruits and vegetables, it is a good sign that your exercise routine is helping you develop healthier mindsets.

I encourage clients to tackle one area at a time – starting a new exercise routine and revising your diet can be too much, too soon, and difficult to maintain. But once fitness becomes a habit, less mental exertion is required so you can focus on other healthy changes. If you are seeing positive changes in other areas of your health routine, it is a good sign that your fitness routine is working for you.

You use a tighter hole on your belt or a hook on your bra

The way your clothes fit is an easy way to tell whether or not your body is responding to your exercise routine. Are your pants a little loose? Do you need to use the next notch on your belt? Yes, these are signs of progress!

While the number on the scale may not yet be drastically different, using a tighter clasp on your bra or belt is a sign that you are toning your body and losing inches.

This can also show the effects of changing your diet. If your fitness routine has inspired you to drink more water and eat fewer unhealthy foods that you used to eat (like soda, processed foods, or excess sugar), it can reduce the puffiness, which can make your clothes fit better too.

You sleep better

Sleeping more soundly is another sign that your fitness routine is having a positive effect on your health. Physical activity helps your body function better – including its ability to relax, sleep better, and follow a consistent sleep schedule. When you’re feeling more restful, getting a good night’s sleep, and maybe even finally recording those precious seven hours, your fitness routine may be thanks.

Sleep is also important for recovery. As you sleep, your body releases hormones that help repair and build muscle tissue. This is important for muscle growth and performance. While a fitness routine can help you sleep better, this restful sleep will also help you recover from your workouts!