#26 - A Candid Discussion About the Scale + 5 Ways to Measure Your Progress

In this episode, Louise and Ariel delve into various ways of measuring progress beyond the scale. Together, they deconstruct the frustrations and mixed signals of weight measurement, navigating through the intricate web of fat loss vs. weight loss and the significance of metabolic, hormonal, and gut health. If you've ever found yourself in a love-hate dance with the scale, this episode promises to shift your perspective, offering a fresh outlook on measuring fitness progress and setting the ground for individualized body goals.They emphasize the importance of focusing on holistic well-being, energy levels, performance improvements, and overall mood rather than solely relying on weight loss as a measure of success. They discuss the significance of body composition changes, such as increased lean muscle mass and decreased fat tissue, even when the scale doesn't reflect immediate changes. Moreover, they critique the current fitness industry's focus on quick fixes, supplements, and restrictive diets, advocating instead for a return to whole, natural foods and intuitive eating. Additionally, they share personal experiences and insights and explore the emotional undercurrents of weight loss, the comprehensive role hormonal fluctuations play, and the profound impact our attitudes have on the next generation.Overall, the episode offers practical strategies for measuring progress, including waist measurements, clothing fit, progress pictures, and qualitative assessments of energy levels and mood. It promotes a balanced approach to health and fitness, emphasizing self-awareness, self-compassion, and a holistic view of well-being.Visit https://www.breakingthroughwellness.com/ for a free nutrition guide, to book a FREE 30-MINUTE CONSULT & learn about our industry-leading 1:1 coaching program & results for active women age 35 & beyond.Episode Highlights:(7:17) Understanding the factors that influence scale weight, including hormonal fluctuations and carbohydrate intake(10:35) Exploring the science behind weight loss and body composition(13:23) Discussion on the limitations of calorie counting and macro tracking apps(15:51) Emphasizing the importance of focusing on habits and behaviors rather than external measurements(23:33) Reflecting on personal experiences and societal influences on body image(31:46) Discussion on body composition testing and the significance of holistic well-being as a measure of progress(42:44) Critique of reductionistic views of food and the importance of whole, natural foods in supporting overall health(45:28) Discussion on the manipulative marketing of supplements and the benefits of focusing on real food and intuitive eating(47:32) Strategies for measuring progress, including waist measurements, clothing fit, and qualitative assessments(55:02) Personal reflections on the emotional aspects of progress measurement and the importance of self-compassion(1:00:20) Emphasizing the fluidity of women's bodies and the importance of self-love and positive body image for overall well-being(1:03:03) OutroTune in weekly to "Maximizing Hormones, Physique, and Running Through Perimenopause" for our simple female-specific science-based revolution. Let's unlock our best with less stress!I'd love to connect!Email 💬  [email protected]  Please note if you want to be a podcast guest, there is a fee and interview process. This is safe space and curated Community exclusively for women who love to feel, look and run our best without B.S. noise, endless pills, extreme diets or misleading fads.