Use a Fitness Journal to Get Back on Track

It is the week after Labor Day. It is possible that the long weekend and food splurging at cook-outs knocked you off your fitness track a little bit, but that’s okay! Use a fitness journal to get back on track with your health goals. We have three great ways to implement a fitness journal into your everyday routine.

What do you need?

First, you will want to collect some materials for your fitness journal! You will need a small notebook or pad of paper that will fit in your purse or clutch. You will also need a reliable pen. If you want to get crafty, you can purchase supplies to decorate your fitness journal. I also suggest purchasing stickers or bookmarks as a fun way to note your accomplishments and successes.

What do you journal?

A fitness journal is different from a diary. It is not a place to jot down your random thoughts and emotions. It is a place to write down physical feelings, food intake, and activity levels.

• How do different foods make you feel? When you are trying to get back on track with your fitness goals, write down the foods you ate while you were indulging. For example, if you ate a lot of chips, write that down and describe how they made you feel. Chances are; the junk food made you feel sluggish, irritable, bloated, and maybe even left you craving for more. Write down the physical symptoms you notice from food. Jot down how healthy foods make you feel as well!

• What was your activity level? Write down your activity level for that day in your fitness journal. If you went for a walk, played tag with your kids, lifted weights at the gym, or deep-cleaned your house, write down the type of activity you have done. This can help you remember different ways to implement activity into your life in the future. In this section, you can also note how you felt after the activity. Did you feel energized? Did you enjoy the activity? These are great questions to answer in your fitness journal!

What do you do with your journal entries?

Once you get used to carrying the journal with you and writing down useful information, you will begin to notice patterns in your habits. You will see what days you are most active. You will be able to see how different foods make you feel. You may even discover an allergy or sensitivity that you didn’t know you had.

Ultimately, a fitness journal is a great way to help you stay on track with your fitness goals! With the aid of a fitness journal, you will be able to read about how you feel. Remembering how you feel when you are being healthy versus when you are indulging in bad habits will motivate you to continue your fitness journey, even on your off-days. For extra support contact me! I’d love to help guide you on your fitness journey.