I’m back today to continue a conversation about non-scale victories. In Part 1 of this series, Beyond the Scale: 4 Non-Scale Victories That Show You’re Making Progress we talked about why the number on the scale isn’t the only indicator of progress or success, and why focusing on non-scale victories (NSVs) can completely change the way you view your health and fitness journey. Today, we are going to dive deeper into this topic, because while the scale can fluctuate for dozens of reasons (hello, hormones, water retention, and stress), your real results show up in other ways if you know where to look. Here are an additional 4 non-scale victories every woman should track and celebrate that show your hard work is paying off.

4 Non-Scale Victories Every Woman Should Track for Real Fitness Results

1. Measurements Over Weighing Yourself

You’ve probably heard the phrase “muscle weighs more than fat”. It’s one people like to say, but it isn’t quite true. One pound of muscle weighs exactly the same as one pound of fat (a pound is a pound, after all). However there is one key difference: muscle is significantly denser than fat. All this means is that you can weigh the same, or even more, and actually be smaller, leaner, and more defined as muscle takes up less room. 

I’ll give you an example.  Back in high school, I weighed 160 pounds and wore a size 12. Today, I weigh 160 pounds again, but now I’m a size 6. I am the same weight, but have a completely different body composition. So, I repeat, the number isn’t the only thing that matters, nor is it telling you the full story.

The tape measure and your clothes will tell you the truth long before the scale ever will. So grab a tape measure and record your measurements and commit to tracking those numbers before your weight.

2. Improved Muscle Definition

While “toning” has always been a buzzword in the fitness world, what it really means is having a low enough body fat percentage to see the muscle you do have.  That means when you start seeing those muscles pop, or new lines appear from muscle definition, which is a huge sign that your body is changing in a good way! That new tricep muscle you just noticed or lines in quads – that’s proof that strength training paired with consistent nutrition is working! 

The caveat is that you actually have to have some muscle so that it can shine through! This is why strength training and building muscle is critical!  

3. Increased Strength in Everyday Life

Progress doesn’t just show up in the gym. It shows up in your life.

Suddenly, carrying all the groceries in one trip is no problem. Picking up your kids, or hauling their bikes, backpacks, and endless amounts of stuff all feels easier. Tasks that used to leave you winded or sore now feel doable, or maybe even easy thanks to your new gains. There’s a reason moms need to work out, and it’s for more than just our sanity. 

When you start noticing that everyday life tasks feel easier, that’s strength in action, and it’s one of the most empowering NSVs you’ll ever experience.

4. Increased Confidence  

Here’s the thing about confidence, most of us aren’t born with it,  but we can build it. The best way to build confidence as an adult is through consistent follow-through. That means fulfilling commitments to yourself (like eating better and keeping your gym dates). 

When you say you’re going to do something, and then actually do it, you prove to yourself that you’re capable and worth it. When you show up for yourself, you’ll quickly see your confidence soar.  Yes, staying consistent with your workouts and choosing foods that fuel your goals will help you look and feel better, but the real payoff is the confidence that comes from keeping the promises you made to yourself and doing what you said you were going to do.

The scale is only one piece of the puzzle, and honestly, not even the most important one. So the next time you notice changes in your body composition, strength, energy, and mindset, be encouraged and know that change is taking place even if that sale isn’t changing.

Ready to Get Started?

After years of training, coaching and numerous certifications, I can tell you with certainty that nothing trumps quality movement, progressive overload, and rock solid nutrition. If you’re ready to shift your focus away from the scale and toward real progress, I’ve got something for you! My 12 week guide comes complete with 12 weeks worth of workouts, tracking, and macro guidance to set you up for success right now! You’ll get everything you need  to elevate your fitness and take things to the next level.  You can always reach out to me for my guidance to help you reach your goals. 

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