Why Non-Scale Victories Matter - Part 2

Two weeks ago we began a special 3 part series, 'The Importance of Non-Scale Victories'. This series is all about the health benefits you notice that aren't directly connected to a number on the bathroom scale. Non-Scale Victories are just as important as losing pounds because they speak to the joys of being human.

As a James Bond villain says to the hero in one of the more recent 007 films: "There's no point in living if you can't feel alive."

Feel free to modify the challenge we provide today, or create an entirely new one suited to what you enjoy most in life. Consider making a list of 10 of these and tacking it somewhere that you will see it every day. That can be your starting point – feel free to be creative and think outside the box!

Here's the second challenge. For this one you're going to need your workout gear. Be it spandex, sweats or neon bright, it works. You just need something that you can sweat in and comfortably perform a range of body movements wearing. Proper running shoes are also a good idea.

Let's get going and feel the sweat!

2) Sweat It Out – The 'Give Me One More Rep!' Challenge

Before your Slimband procedure, exercise may have been a scary word. It doesn't have to be anymore – you can embrace the challenge of adding muscle definition and toning your body. This challenge can do wonders for both your stamina and self-esteem.

The goal of this challenge is to focus on how exercise makes you feel, and to develop your own workout routine.

You don't even need to go to the gym for this one if you own a proper set of weights, a workout bench, and jogging shoes. Before you start this challenge, ask yourself:

• How long has it been since I last worked out? This will help you set limits for yourself and remind you to start gently. Remember, the goal is to work up a sweat, not to injure yourself.
• Do I know how to use gym equipment? A very important question, since improper lifting is another way you could injure yourself. If you're not familiar with a piece of equipment, remember to get tips from the gym's staff (or an experienced friend) beforehand.
• What are my goals for the first couple sessions? This will help you start to create a routine, and will allow you to go in knowing what body parts you want to focus on (core, arms, legs).

After you've finished your workout and showered down, ask yourself: "How do I feel?" Exercise can help promote a sense of wellbeing by releasing endorphins in the brain. These are neurotransmitters that cause feelings of pleasure and even mild euphoria on occasions.

Again, these ideas are just guidelines. Feel free to create your own Non-Scale Victory Challenges or modify the ones we provide. No matter what you do, you'll be sure to notice some benefits that aren't directly tied to a number on the scale.

This concludes Part 2 of the series. See you again in a couple weeks for the conclusion of our Non-Scale Victories series!