I've been burned so much of late by the fluctuations of the scales (due to hydration/dehydration) that I'm wondering if I should primarily measure my weight loss by the tape measure instead. I think it would be less affected by water weight and show any true fat loss that's occurring. Then I could just, say, weight myself once a week, just to check that progress.

Has anyone measured their fat loss this way in the long term, and if so, how has it worked? Is it as prone to vascillations as the scales?

I do both but I think if the scale is really bugging you then go for it! Ultimately, you just need some form of tracking your measurement and as long as you do it on a consistent basis (whatever you define that as) you'll be able to track your progress.

Bad news is, though, that your measurements can change with water weight fluctuations too, especially your bust and stomach. Personally, I go up about an 1" during my period and ovulation. If you know that is going to bug you, though, could you just avoid measuring during those times? Also, I haven't found mine other measurements to change nearly as much.

I've never used the tape measure to track my weight loss as a primary tool. It's secondary. First, it's not as accurate for me, probably because I measure myself, and that leaves lots of room for error.

The second thing is, I need the constant feedback that the scale provides to keep me focused and motivated. I only measure about once a month. More often than that, and I see more fluctuation.

The last thing is, my measurements haven't changed all that much. So that takes me back to the feedback. I need to see progress to keep progressing.

I agree that using both is the best approach. Weighing yourself once a week is a great idea, and then measure yourself at regular times too. You'll get a better picture of your progress.

I've always used the scale. I use the mirror rather than a tape measure for checking out visual differences. A lot of people use progress pictures as well.

I don't see why not. Personally I use the scale because it correlates with my measurements. I know that at a certain weight I am around __ inches. Try it for a month maybe? Maybe measure weekly for a month and then weigh yourself at the end of the month and see your progress from both angles. If you have a goal weight in mind, you will be able to see if the measurement method also helps you reach goal weight as well as size.

I weigh myself once a week but I really could care less what it says.

I only measure with a tape measure in one spot, once a week.

I use fat calipers to measure two spots, once a week.

I do both, but only do my measurements once a month whereas I weigh daily.

I weigh daily but have learned not to let the little fluctuations upset me...it just motivates me and pushes me to keep working harder because I know any increases will come back off soon enough. I usually do measurements every 2-4 pounds I lose. One problem with measuring has already been pointed out - if the scale is up from water weight some of your measurements may also be up. The second problem is that if you lose .5 pounds one day...its usually not enough to show up on the tape measure. At least not for me. If you think it'll keep you more sane than the scale will, I say go for it, but just be prepared to possibly see very small or no changes on a day to day basis.

I do both, they both have their place. For monitoring hormonal fluctuations in weight and daily trends the scale can't be beat, for me (especially paired with food and activity records), but for longer term progress or when my weight isn't changing and everything is copasetic, the tape measure is excellent. I utilize both heavily.

Scales all the weigh. LOL

Tape measure? BAH! I measured my arse and was so horrified I threw the tape measure away.

Scales, I'm used to.

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One cheerleader for every 5lb lost!

LOL