14 Tips for Using Your Bathroom Scale

How to Use Weighing Scale for Weight Loss

Your bathroom scale may be more controversial than you think. But the topic of how weighing scale works is really out of the equation. The conventional wisdom that warned against weighing yourself every day is supported by some experts and challenged by others, but it could still lead to better health by constantly monitoring your weight.

Meanwhile, people are still all over the place with how they’re using their scales. By some estimates, about 20% of the population refrain from weighing themselves, 40% weigh themselves weekly or daily, and the rest do so occasionally. It’s really up to you how to answer the question how does a bathroom scale work especially FOR YOU. Whatever you decide, your scale can be an asset when you’re trying to watch your weight to become healthier. Consider these guidelines for when and how to weigh yourself using a bathroom scale.

How to Weigh Yourself

When to Use Your Weighing Scale:

1. Start a daily practice.

A University of Minnesota study found that dieters who weighed themselves every day lost twice as much weight as those who weighed themselves weekly. They were also better at keeping the weight off because they have a mindset of working towards better weight everyday.

2. Weigh in less often.

On the other hand, many experts still advise against daily weight checks for certain groups of people. This includes those who may get discouraged by meaningless fluctuations and the lack of quick results.

3. Make it social.

Some people do well by weighing themselves in group settings. Weight Watchers is an example of a group that recommends that individuals trying to shed pounds wait until meetings to get on the scale. That way they’ll have support and motivation around.

4. Catch slips early.

That suggestion is reversed when you’re trying to maintain your figure. Staying vigilant can help you can make corrections promptly before the sudden weight gain goes out of hand. This could be especially important if you have a condition such as diabetes.

5. Monitor your mood.

People who are experiencing depression or battling eating disorders may also want to limit their time on the scale instead of weighing often.

How to Use a Weighing Scale:

1. Keep your old scale.

Hold onto that scale with the needle if you want. It may be a little imprecise, but if you use it consistently, it will work out. There are some good ol’ feeling of using a trusted weighing scale for weight loss.

2. Go digital.

If you’re ready to trade up, digital scales are more accurate and easier to read. If you have the money, make it one of your health investments.

3. Hit the gym.

For even more reliability, stand on the scale at your health club or doctor’s office. Buying a professional model for your home could be pricey. Doing this also gives you the added challenge to try your best to weigh less every time you go out and use a weighing scale.

4. Add more features.

Bathroom scales have gotten fancier in the recent years. Now you can get models that do far more than measure pounds. Some can even check out your body fat, water content, bone mass, and indoor air quality. Opt for a solar powered scale if you’re an environmentalist. This add-ons can make you feel inspired to watch your weight.

5. Incorporate your scale into your morning routine.

The early morning hours are the best time to weigh yourself. Even better, you’ll probably be at your lowest weight in morning time.

6. Consider other measurements.

There are many ways to track how your diet or weight is going. Try on a pair of your favorite jeans or any form fitting clothes. Pay special attention to fat around your midsection. A firm abdomen has many health benefits, including lowering your risk of heart disease. Combine these measures with the readings on your weighing scale.

7. Adjust for clothing.

Stripping down will make you lighter. Apparel can add anywhere between 2 to 5 pounds to your body weight so make sure you adjust your bathroom scale to take this into account.

8. Track your progress.

However often you use your scale, log your performance if you’re trying to reach a certain goal. Write them down. Documenting your results will increase your awareness, progress, and motivation.

9. Talk with your doctor.

Consult your physician about your individual dieting needs. Your health care team can help you find the best weight loss strategy for you as you become more aware of the changes in your weight. They can also advise you about how your body weight may affect any medical conditions you’re especially concerned about.

Make your bathroom scale a regular part of your weight loss plan. Select a model with the features you like and follow a schedule that works best for you.