Some people blame modern technology for the lack of activity so apparent in our society. After all, 100 years ago there were no computers, cell phones, and TVs that enabled people to sit on their butt 8-10 hours a day.
Back then, people were more active. They had to be.
But a recent 2010 study suggests that your phone – yes your phone – can actually help you lose weight! Sounds crazy, I know but…
Bear with me for a second while I explain this.
Researchers in Finland studied 27 participants who used a “wellness diary” application on their mobile phone, which enabled users to track their weight over the course of 12 weeks.
As you would expect, the amount of physical activity correlated significantly with weight loss, as did different measures representing healthy changes in dietary behaviours. The study’s results suggest that the mobile phone diary is a valid tool for observing weight management and related behaviours in helping people to lose weight.
So why was the application helpful?
Basically, it doesn’t matter whether you use a fancy application or a piece of paper, what matters is that you’re tracking your progress.
What you measure gets managed, and what is managed gets done.
This is a well-known secret to anyone whose achieved any degree of fitness or weight loss success. When you track your workouts (such as the weight used, reps performed, etc…) you are more likely to progress towards your goals.
Ask any fitness expert and then tell you exactly what their benching, squatting, or how many pull-ups they can do. Because they keep track of it all!
Similarly, when you weigh yourself on a weekly basis and record your progress, you are more motivated to continue moving forward because you have a visual representation of your progress. Plus, writing things down keeps you accountable to your goals!
So if you want to lose weight, grab a sheet of paper, write down your goals and start tracking your progress. You’ll be amazed at how this ONE simple success secret will help you stay on track and reach your goals that much sooner!
Want to know how the fittest people on the planet get in such great shape?
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Reference:
Mattila E, et al. (2010). Use of a mobile phone diary for observing weight management and related behaviours. J Telemed Telecare. Jul;16(5):260-4.