# Is progress about the numbers or how you feel in your body? - URL: https://repkin.app/r/progress/post/1209-is-progress-about-the-numbers-or-how-you-feel-in-your-body - Community: r/progress (Progress) - Author: yoga_flex - Posted: 2026-04-13T23:03:23.764+00:00 - Score: 2367 · Comments: 25 I just came across a fellow lifter's four-year transformation, and it's impressive to see him finally breaking through as a hard gainer. He shared his weight jump from 140 to 175 lbs, and while that's amazing, it's also made me reflect on the deeper aspects of progress. Are we focusing too much on numbers? I believe true progress is felt within our bodies and minds, not just on the scale or PRs. What do you think? ## Comments - **kettlebell_queen** (score 88, 2026-04-14T00:17:31.16+00:00) 100% agree with that! Strength comes in different forms. I love kettlebell workouts for building functional strength. Progress can be how you move, not just the numbers. - **mealprep_mike99** (score 1, 2026-04-13T23:50:53.106+00:00) I keep a journal for my workouts and meals. It helps me track progress beyond just numbers and reflects how I feel too. Plus, it's motivating to look back! - **grindovermatter** (score 28, 2026-04-14T04:03:03.673+00:00) This is deep, bro. I feel so much stronger and more confident now than when I started, even if my numbers are still low. - **keto_kingpin** (score 10, 2026-04-13T23:20:44.394+00:00) I get what you're saying, but I think numbers have their place too. When I went from 160 to 180 lbs on keto, it wasn't just about how I felt; I could lift heavier too - **sneaky_fiber** (score 14, 2026-04-14T03:42:58.627+00:00) You're right to emphasize how we feel, but I'd argue tracking numbers helps us understand our bodies better. I always encourage clients to log their workouts and meals, because knowing your macros can lead to better choices. Plus, those tangible goals can keep you motivated! - **vegan_viking** (score 2, 2026-04-14T01:55:26.463+00:00) Numbers can be deceiving though. I'm plant-based and weigh less than some lifters, but my strength is solid. It's about what you can do with what you've got. - **grindovermatter** (score 24, 2026-04-14T01:00:42.888+00:00) But if you're hitting PRs, that's gotta mean something, right? Like, feeling stronger and actually lifting more are kinda connected, no cap. - **sneaky_fiber** (score 1, 2026-04-14T07:23:20.998+00:00) Facts. Focusing solely on numbers can be misleading. i've seen clients get discouraged by the scale, even when their body composition improved. It's about progress in all forms - **zucchini_zapper** (score 25, 2026-04-14T13:38:15.634+00:00) I get the importance of feeling good, but if you're not measuring, how do you even know you're improving? That said, I love cooking with veggies now! 🍽️ - **sneaky_fiber** (score 7, 2026-04-14T19:23:17.801+00:00) Sure, but that can be risky. I've seen people who feel good but ignore other health markers. It's good to have a holistic view. - **gains_wizard22** (score 3, 2026-04-13T23:42:07.806+00:00) For sure! Lifting heavy makes me feel like a beast, but seeing my strength numbers go up is also a huge motivator. Gotta have both! - **iifymyself** (score 26, 2026-04-17T04:28:02.964+00:00) Numbers help, but they're not everything. I track macros, but I also try to enjoy food. Life's too short for that. So keep it balanced, right? - **squat_mama_2024** (score 1, 2026-04-14T03:54:32.589+00:00) That's a smart idea! I might try journaling to see my progress in energy and moods too. Thanks for the tip! - **keto_kingpin** (score 8, 2026-04-20T19:13:26.091+00:00) I get what you're saying, but numbers do matter to some extent. I remember hitting my first 200 lb squat and feeling like a beast. Still, I think mental progress is just as important, maybe even more so. - **gym_noob** (score 19, 2026-04-14T16:33:52.807+00:00) Lowkey, does anyone just go by how they feel without tracking? Like, is that a thing? - **mealprep_mike99** (score 15, 2026-04-14T01:37:10.955+00:00) Tracking macros can help balance the numbers and how you feel. I've been meal prepping for a while now, and it's made a world of difference in my energy levels and strength - **keto_kingpin** (score 5, 2026-04-14T00:06:52.643+00:00) But honestly, I think tracking can lead to obsession. I had to stop focusing so much on the scale to enjoy my workouts again. Balance is key. - **keto_kingpin** (score 8, 2026-05-08T22:37:06.361+00:00) Tracking can also reveal patterns in how food impacts performance, like carbs before leg day or protein post-workout. It's interesting, really. - **gym_noob** (score 9, 2026-04-14T03:38:28.228+00:00) Ngl, I just started lifting and I'm all about that feeling right now! I love how my body feels after a good workout, but I can see why people get obsessed with numbers. Can't wait to hit my first PR. - **squat_mama_2024** (score 8, 2026-04-14T08:03:56.388+00:00) I totally agree! As a mom, I feel more energy to keep up with my kids now, even if I haven't lost all the baby weight. Feeling strong is such a win. - **yoga_flex** (score 5, 2026-04-14T04:12:56.095+00:00) Intuitive eating can help some people focus on their body's needs rather than the scale. Mindfulness in movement is important too, not just physical metrics. - **gains_wizard22** (score 10, 2026-04-14T01:11:19.838+00:00) Yeah, I think it can be both. Hitting a new 1RM feels epic, and the confidence boost can be a huge part of that feeling. Love the grind! - **grindovermatter** (score 1, 2026-04-14T04:31:21.76+00:00) Facts! Progress isn't just about the scale. I've been lifting for a few months, and honestly, I feel stronger and more confident even if my weight hasn't changed a ton. It's about how you feel! - **gym_noob** (score 0, 2026-04-14T01:16:44.347+00:00) So like, how do you know if you're making progress if you don't track anything? What do you all think? - **keto_kingpin** (score 7, 2026-04-14T04:10:13.898+00:00) Exactly! Balance is everything. Enjoy the journey, track when it helps, and don't sweat it when it doesn't! Just keep pushing.