Workout log sheets are a great tool for tracking your progress on a fitness program. They also ensure you are gradually making changes to your plan, preventing injury and ensuring continual muscle growth. Keeping track of your workouts with workout log sheets has several benefits. The small amount of time invested in the actual writing is definitely worth it in the long run.
Workout log sheets are used by all types of athletes. Runners use them when in training, as do body builders and professional athletes. They are a great resource and method of tracking progress.
For most people workout log sheets allow them to keep track of what they did in their last workout and when they are ready to increase their intensity. For example, if you are using your workout log sheet to track your progress in a strength training routine, you would be able to look at last week’s workout and see immediately that you did 3 sets of 12 reps using 20 pound hand weights for your hammer curls. This week you may do the same intensity or notice that you are ready to try 25 pound weights.
A good addition to make to your workout log sheets is how you felt with each exercise. For instance, if you did 15 reps and still felt that you could continue, perhaps you are ready for heavier weights with that exercise. Simply making a notation of “ok”, “too much”, or “not enough” can help you immediately pick up the right weight on your next workout.
Another great way to use a workout log sheet is to see how your workouts have improved over the long term. Seeing how you have changed over a period of months is an excellent motivator. Comparing progress pictures with workout logs makes progress immediately apparent and is an excellent method of resurrecting enthusiasm in your workouts.
Check out P90X and ChaLEAN Extreme for workouts that utilize workout log sheets and provide the logs for you!
Tracking your progress at anything is a good idea. You can see where you are making strides and where you need to focus more effort at an easy glance. A daily exercise chart allows you to track your daily workouts and gives you a sense of accomplishment. Your daily exercise chart can also be used to schedule your workouts ahead of time, making it more likely that you will stick with your program.