When we’re trying to be healthier, it’s easy to become focused on what the weighing scales tell us. And while body weight is a relevant health metric that shouldn’t be ignored, it’s only part of the equation. Here are some other key health metrics to keep an eye on, which can significantly impact our overall wellbeing.

Sleep

Good-quality sleep is essential for your overall well-being, impacting everything from physical health to cognitive function and mood. Insufficient sleep can lead to various health issues, so it’s vital that you prioritize rest and maintain a healthy bedtime routine. While individual needs vary, adults typically require between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night for optimal health. If you’re struggling to fall asleep, waking frequently, or feeling exhausted, irritable, or unable to focus during waking hours, it’s a good idea to speak to your healthcare provider.

Exercise

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults engage in 150-300 minutes* of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week to keep their minds and bodies healthy. This amount is only a guideline, and your individual needs and capabilities should always be taken into account. If a disability or injury prevents you from meeting these guidelines, try to be as physically active as possible. Always consult your doctor or physical therapist before trying any new exercise.

Resting heart rate

A lower resting heart rate (RHR) (between 60 and 100 beats per minute for most adults, and between 40 and 60 beats per minute for very active adults) typically suggests that your heart is functioning efficiently and is often a reflection of better physical fitness. A lower resting heart rate is strongly associated with a lower risk of heart attacks and other serious cardiovascular events, and is an indicator of long-term cardiac health. Of course, it’s important to attend check-ups and screenings even if your RHR is within the healthy range, as other metrics, like blood pressure and cholesterol levels, are also important indicators of your cardiovascular health.

Waist circumference

Waist circumference is a key indicator of health risks associated with obesity, and helps assess the amount of fat around the belly. Some of this fat sits just under the skin, while another, more dangerous type of fat, visceral fat, builds up around your internal organs.

Excess visceral fat is strongly linked to serious health issues, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and increased risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Guidelines for what constitutes a healthy waist measurement depend on factors like your sex, race, and age, so it’s important to check with your healthcare provider to find out what’s healthy for you.

References:

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/ask-the-experts/bradycardia-low-heart-rate
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/how-a-healthy-heart-works/your-heart-rate
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10421666/
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/risk-factors/obesity

*or at least 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity, or an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity activity.