Why You Should Keep a Workout Journal
October 17, 2013Article By: Lisa FreedmanIf you want to see results from each and every workout you do, chart your progress in an exercise journal. Self-monitoring your workout has proved to be a cornerstone in losing weight and building muscle, sccording to Jeffrey Katula, PhD, an exercise physiologist at Wake Forest University.While many people jot down their weight after stepping off the bathroom scale, researchers at Northwestern University found that those who consistently tracked their exercise habits — especially during holidays — lost more weight compared to those who did not.How can you increase your chance of journal success? "Keep it simple," says Katula. "You're more likely to stick with something that's convenient." Westcott suggests recording the exercises you do, the weight load and the number of repetitions. Also record the time you spend doing cardio, along with other available measurements, including distance, for example, or the pre-programmed treadmill or stationary bike...