I know I look at the more subtle things as evidence that what we're doing is working, but to me, these things aren't subtle - they're the shifts in your body's chemistry, the altering of your body composition, the way your body is getting ready and laying the foundation for whatever you're going to throw at it next. And it's so exciting to see.
Here are some of the first things you can look for as signs that what we are doing is working:
Your clothes hit different
You may not notice it on the scale, but your clothes will notice it. Your pants may not dig in so much at the waist, but your calf muscles may suddenly have a hard time fitting into skinny jeans.
Your heart rate lowers
If your resting heart rate lowers - OR, your after-workout heart rate lowers, OR it takes more work to get your heart rate to where it usually sits after your workout, your cardiovascular system is working more effectively. Remember, your body wants to conserve energy wherever it can. That means your heart will only pump as much as it needs to to circulate effectively. If the rate is lower from regular exercise, your heart doesn't have to work as hard.
You stand taller
Once you start building muscle, especially in the back, shoulders and core, you will naturally start standing taller and looking more confident.
You have lines appearing down the sides of your stomach
These are your oblique lines and they're the first visual sign of building your core. You may still have a bit of a belly in front of it, but the lines are there and they're an indication that if you continue with your routine, the belly will follow suit. On that note, you can also flex your core and feel the muscle underneath your belly. It's there, waiting.
You can suddenly easily pick up items that used to be a struggle to lift
You may be pushing a wheelbarrow, picking up the cast iron pan, or bringing in groceries and the items just seem...lighter.
You'll naturally drink more water
As your muscles grow, they will beg for water to keep them healthy. Your muscles are about 75% water and need this fluid to help move oxygen and glucose into the cells to recover, repair and build. The water also helps joints and tissues to move without pain.
Recovery is faster
After your first workout, you may have had a hard time getting out of bed the next morning, or climbing the stairs. The workouts don't hit you like that anymore. You may feel a little twinge of soreness after a heavy workout, but it's nothing compared to what it was.
Other people start to notice
You may not see the changes, but others who don't see you as often will. And they'll ask you what you're doing.
Remember that progress is not measured in size but in movement forward.
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