The Shape Up America! Food and Physical Activity Diary
Why Keep a Diary?
A Food and Physical Activity Diary can help you identify specific barriers that may be preventing you from making successful changes. If kept over time and when compared to earlier diaries, it can also help you see the progress you've made.
How to Keep a Diary
Print out several copies of the Food and Physical Activity Diary. Follow the directions. Record your food and physical activity for at least two weekdays and one weekend day a week. Be specific!
How to Use the Diary
At the end of the week, look for trends in your eating and activity patterns. Does your eating increase at certain hours during weekdays or weekends? Do you exercise less on weekdays? Is there anything about these times, your location, the people you are with, or your mood that triggers your urge to eat or your desire not to exercise?
If You Need Some Ideas or Support
As you uncover some of your personal challenges, visit some of the other sections of the Support Center for some helpful information or suggestions. And don't forget to visit:
- the Cyberkitchen, which can show you how to balance the food you eat with physical activity.
- the Fitness Center, which can show you how to incorporate or increase the level of physical activity in your life.
Are you interested in talking with one of our experts? Do you have a topic you'd like Shape Up America! to feature in the Support Center? Just complete the support contact form and we'll be in touch!
