Scales, are they Really Necessary?

We have all been there: we step on a scale and see that number that we just aren’t satisfied with. Next thing we know our wheels are spinning and we start stressing out about improving the number. But often the stress we associate with that silly number can be so un-motivating that it cripples our ability to exceed. So why does society and the health industry put so much emphasis on the number?

The easy answer is that using weight is an essential tool trainers, physicians, nutritionists, and other health professional use to measure one’s overall health. However, it is just that a tool, not the sole indicator of health. This number should be used together with body fat %, BMI, Heart Rate, and other health variables. Someone could be considered “Overweight” but have an extremely low body fat percentage. This person’s nutrition will look completely different from someone who is overweight with a high body fat percentage. Others may be in the state of homeostasis with their weight. I personally have been the same weight for the last 12 or so years. But my body fat %, my circumference measurements, and overall health have changed throughout the years.

So why does society put so much pressure on the number? Commercials and other weight loss advertisements often promise the number of pounds an individual can lose. Individuals typically have ‘pound associated’ health goals. i.e. I am going to lose 10 lbs. before summer. And we all know that individual who takes weighing himself so seriously that the scale will solely determine whether they will have a good day. Some will weigh themselves daily and will adjust their meal and workout plan in response to the number on the scale. This mentality is extremely dangerous and often leads to serious emotional and physical complications.

The truth is that scales and weight have become over and inappropriately used. If you do not own a scale, do not go buy one. Instead use the one at the gym, with your trainer, or at your Dr office. If you do own a scale, great. Use it once per week or once a month, and use the results in correlation with other measurements: i.e. circumference of your waist. If the number on the scale upsets you, call your trainer so that they can do a full assessment. Your number may be up or down for several different reasons. The key to measuring yourself accurately is to do it the same every time. Be consistent.

Yes. Scales are necessary, but are they are only one variable in identifying the health of an individual. Meal plans, workout programs, and general health are not solely determined by the number on the scale. When used correctly scales can be very useful in motivation and as a visual tool to see progression. Make sure you are not obsessing over the number and you will find that scales hold an important place in health management.