To improve something, you have to track it. If you're trying to fix your money management, you track where the money goes. Same with your body.
Tracking your lifts matters for two reasons. You can see your progress over time and spot a plateau, and it saves you time when you walk in because you know exactly where to start.
But most people only get about three hours in the gym each week. That leaves 165 other hours. So what should you track during the "other 165"?
WATER INTAKE
Most of us should drink about half our bodyweight in ounces of water each day. If you're not tracking it, how do you know if you're on track or not?
COMPLIANT MEALS
Counting calories and macros works great for some people. For most of us, it's too tedious. So instead, just count your "compliant meals" each day. A compliant meal has the right amount of lean protein, vegetables, whole-grain carbs, and healthy fats. Portions vary by your size, activity, and goals.
ACTIVITY AND BODY COMPOSITION
There's something satisfying about booking your session, showing up, and checking it off. And if you string a few days together with no activity, tracking it is a great way to stop the slide. For body composition, you don't need an expensive scan. Record your weight, waist, and hip measurements monthly, and take monthly progress photos.
If you don't track it, you can't improve it. Seeing your hard work pay off is powerful motivation, and noticing you're stuck is the signal to adjust.
Pick a couple of these and start this week. If you want help building a tracking plan that fits your life, reply and let me know.