“How often should I weigh myself?”

I hear this question A LOT. People have come to depend on the scale to tell them how well they’re doing as they move toward their healthy lifestyle.

So what’s my answer?

You should weigh yourself a lot less than you think. Maybe twice a month.

Really. That’s it.

The scale is not the only indicator of how well you’re doing. And sometimes, it’s not even the best indicator.

As you get healthier and healthier, your actual weight is going to fluctuate. Sometimes it’s up, sometimes it’s down. It depends on what you’ve been eating, how your retaining water, how much you’re moving, you hormones, and how your replacing fat with muscle.

The scale is actually not a true indication of your improved health.

As you move more, and eat better, the best thing to pay attention to is how you feel. Did you feel great after a day of eating healthy, nourishing food? Great! Then keep doing that!

Do you feel stronger, clearer, and more empowered as you move more? Great! Then keep doing that too!

Another great way to gauge your progress is how good you feel in your clothes. Are they fitting better? Do you feel more confident in them?

Your energy level is another great indicator that you’re moving toward better health. If you find that you don’t slump in the mid-afternoon, or you have more energy for a longer time during the day – that’s also a really great sign.

Let’s be clear here though, Goals are a good thing…

And the scale can certainly help you track your progress. A target weight range is a great way to track your weight loss rather than shooting for a hard and fast number.

Goals are important, and having measurable, tangible targets are important. But don’t rely on just one thing to gauge your progress.