Thread: Workout Journal

I use a notepad and a pen.

But I do not log every set, rep, etc., I just log the days I work-out and what I worked that day, and if it was a "heavy" or "light" work-out.

The reason I am saking is because I never go back to check with I did a few weeks earlier to see if my weight is increasing. I was wonderin if there was another method people used so they had the actual exercise like Bicep Curls then log each day they do curls on one sheet so they can see the increse/decreases. I am new to weight lifting so I don't know where I am from week to week.

well, in that case you should log your work-outs in detail, there is a program called Cross Trainer that is pretty slick; it's $50

http://www.crosstrainer.ca/

used to use a notebook when i first started but as years went by i just remember what i did the week before and if i completed at least 8 reps it was time to increase the weight. but i would recommend keeping a detailed tracking of your workouts for all newbies...

Notepad is something like 4" x 5" and a pen, I write it all down before I go to the gym and then just write the reps with a clicker ball point pen (quick).

I am able to keep everything in my head now. Each day of the week means a particular thing to me (e.g. chest day, back day, cardio/abs, leg day, rest day etc) in terms of focus. So while I am showering or on my way to the gym I am planning my routine and deciding if I am going to add in a new exercise or stick with my current routine. Depending on how I am feeling (soreness, “up”, tired, energy levels, injuries etc.) and how much time is available I also plan a general workout methodology (e.g. up/down pyramids, straight sets, etc.). Then at the gym I just jump in and do it with the appropriate weight levels committed to memory. If it turns out I am really energetic and lifting above expectation I will sometimes change up the intensity and throw in more sets or exercises. Or if I am feeling less strong I may work with less weight but increase the reps and/or sets. It pays to be able to adapt to circumstances. I just use a few guiding principals like rep range and number of sets and number of exercises as a rule so it’s easy to remember. Sometimes at the gym I also have to modify my plan based on a machine or lifting station being used or being cleaned/repaired.

It’s not that hard to remember after you have done it for a few months and get to know your weights. Before you know it you may find that you have cute nick-names for the dumbbells and plate combinations (like – “lightweight”, “cheep-thrills”, “toe-smasher”, “sob”, “bastard”, “MOFU”).

But definitely keep a detailed record when you first start since gains will be rapid and it’s hard to keep it all in your head. After about 3-4 months you may find that you are working hard for 2-5 lb improvements so then it’s easy to remember since levels don’t change often.