Charting Your Course: The Importance of Workout Tracking
Written by John Main
To make the most out of your fitness, there’s one accessory you definitely need: a training log. Use the Whiteboard feature in our app, or keep a detailed diary — either way, tracking workouts is for anyone looking to optimize their gym time and see results faster.
- Remember that epic class you tackled last month? Challenging your limits doesn’t have to be subjective, and by jotting down reps, weights, and impressions about how the workout went, you’ll be able to more accurately see improvements and exactly how far you’ve come.
- Related, comparing performances can reveal patterns and areas that might require more attention. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a rut, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the dreaded plateau!
If goal setting is a compass toward purposeful training, then a journal helps you map that adventure. Whether you want to get stronger, improve body composition, or increase endurance, you’ll have the data needed to set realistic and achievable markers, enabling you to tailor your efforts and reach your destination.
- Recording workouts creates a sense of responsibility and accountability to yourself, too. It becomes easier to stay committed to the path, avoid skipping sessions, and maintain consistency. Similarly, you’ll be able to acknowledge every victory, no matter how minor it may seem. Even the smallest wins lift our confidence to come back for more.
- Plus, if you share your experiences with others, especially by posting on the Performance360 app, it connects you more to the community, sparking conversation and inspiring one another. And, it assists coaches when recommending weight selections and other modifications, as well as to see how the program is working for the group as a whole.
Finally, logging workouts allows you to link them with your nutrition, and notice how certain meals or snacks affect performance. Did that pre-class banana boost your energy? Did that post-class protein shake aid recovery? Journaling can help upgrade your fuel, too.
Your notes aren’t merely a collection of numbers; they’re your story, your journey, and your blueprint for success. If you’re a seasoned member or just starting out, it’s an invaluable tool for your routine to not only be more effective, but also more fun.
