What does the number on the scale tell us?
Your weight is useful information — but it is only one part of the story.
More than fat
The scale shows your total body weight: muscle, bones, organs, water, the contents of your digestive system and body fat. When the number changes, it does not automatically mean you have gained or lost fat.
Why weight fluctuates
It is normal for weight to change by one or even two kilograms from day to day. Salt, carbohydrates, hormones, sleep, stress, hard training and digestion all affect how much water your body holds.
Look at the trend
Weigh yourself under the same conditions — ideally in the morning, after the toilet, before eating — and follow the trend over several weeks rather than a single day.
Other signs of progress
Body measurements, how your clothes fit, energy, sleep, strength and how you feel around food often show progress before the scale does.