Exercise is a key component of weight loss efforts, according to the Mayo Clinic. Engaging in regular physical activity boosts the number of calories burned by the body, speeding weight loss. A weight loss and exercise journal offers a way to document your goals and progress for continued success.
Benefits
The weight loss journal provides a dedicated space for recording all of your workouts and surrounding details. Documenting this information allows you to discover patterns in your exercise habits. The journal may help keep you motivated, according to Making a Change of Heart, a program developed by the University of Kansas Hospital. The running record of fitness reminds you of the progress you've already made.
Supplies
A sturdy notebook or blank journal is really all you need to get started. The style of book you use depends on personal preference. If you plan to carry the journal with you, choose a lightweight, compact book that still allows you enough space to document your stats.
Information
The information you record depends on what you specifically want to track. General information you should document is the date, time, type of workout, location and how you felt during and after the workout. A weekly weigh-in provides you with a regular interval for assessing and documenting your weight loss.
Method
Documenting all of your exercise and weight loss information immediately makes your journal more accurate. You are likely to forget at least some of the workout details if you try to complete the journal at the end of the day. Divide each page into separate columns for each piece of information. Add the information at the conclusion of each workout.
Analysis
Regular analysis of your journal helps uncover patterns in your weight loss, especially if you reach a plateau. Look back at times when you were able to lose weight consistently to identify factors that may have helped you. Similarly, the journal may reveal factors that cause your weight loss and exercise efforts to stall.
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