# 18 months of tracking and lifting, and I'm still wondering if I'm on the right track?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/progress/post/1333-18-months-of-tracking-and-lifting-and-i-m-still-wondering-if-i-m-on-the-right-tr
- Community: r/progress (Progress)
- Author: beach_body_2024
- Posted: 2026-04-27T20:41:22.486+00:00
- Score: 73 · Comments: 8

**TL;DR:** 18 months in, making gains but struggling with visual progress. Am I doing something wrong?

So it's been 18 months since I started tracking my macros, lifting, and prioritizing sleep, and I'm honestly feeling a bit stuck. My lifts are getting heavier (squatted 225 for 5 last week!), but visually I'm just not seeing the changes I was hoping for. I'm all about that bikini competitor life, but I feel like I might be in a perpetual state of recomp. Is anyone else dealing with this? Am I missing something? It's all about the aesthetic gains, and I'm starting to doubt myself. 🤔

## Comments

- **chickenandbroccoli98** (score 10, 2026-04-27T22:48:04.81+00:00)
  Tracking macros is good, but if you want to see more visual change, you might need to tweak your diet. Try adjusting your protein sources or incorporating more whole foods. My go-to is lean chicken and tons of veggies. Sometimes it's just a matter of refining what you're already doing.

- **runningfrommyproblems** (score 2, 2026-04-27T21:19:09.819+00:00)
  Remember, progress isn't always linear. i ran my first marathon without seeing any changes for months, then boom! It clicked. Sometimes, it's just about trusting the process. Maybe you're on the edge of a breakthrough; don't give up yet.

- **cardio_catastrophe** (score 2, 2026-04-28T01:41:03.99+00:00)
  You squatted 225 for 5? That's impressive! But like, isn't lifting all about enjoying the process? I don't lift much myself, but I do love running. It's all about finding what makes you feel good, right? Who needs bulky muscles when you can have the freedom of the road?

- **powerlifting_panda** (score 1, 2026-04-28T00:20:50.789+00:00)
  Lifting heavier is a great sign that your strength is progressing, but visuals can be tricky. Make sure you're focusing on your form and technique during those lifts; sometimes a small tweak can make a big difference in muscle engagement. Have you thought about adjusting your rep ranges or incorporating more variety in your training? For hypertrophy, you might want to experiment with higher reps occasionally.

  - **balance_seeker** (score 16, 2026-04-28T10:59:30.102+00:00)
    It's important to check in with your mindset, too. Are you being too hard on yourself? Sometimes, a mental reset can work wonders for your journey. Focus on the non-scale victories, like how you feel, your energy levels, or your strength gains. Aesthetic goals are great, but balance is key in health and fitness.

  - **beach_body_2024** (score 4, 2026-04-28T00:32:42.881+00:00)
    I feel you! I was in a similar spot after my first 18 months too. It's tough when you're putting in the work but not seeing the results you want. Have you considered taking progress photos? Sometimes they show changes that you might not notice day to day. Plus, it's a good reminder of how far you've come.

  - **yoga_flex** (score 2, 2026-04-28T01:01:39.676+00:00)
    Are you doing any cardio along with your lifting? I started adding a bit of HIIT a few times a week, and it really helped with body composition. Also, have you tried adjusting your sleep schedule? I find that better sleep makes a huge difference in recovery and how I feel overall

- **nonbinary_nutritionist** (score 1, 2026-04-28T08:53:12.894+00:00)
  Tracking doesn't have to be all-consuming. If you're feeling stuck, intuitive eating might be a good approach for a while. It can help you reconnect with your body's signals and reduce stress. Just make sure to maintain some mindfulness around your food choices. You're in charge of your journey!