When it comes to tracking your fitness progress, there are countless methods people swear by. From weighing yourself to monitoring your strength, everyone has their preferred way. However, according to four-time Mr. Olympia champion Jay Cutler, the most effective way is simpler than you might think.

Cutler recently posted a short video on his Instagram where he discusses how to measure progress perfectly. According to him, the answer is a “Mirror.” “Measuring progress in the gym is an important component in making sure you stay on track to achieving your goals,” Cutler wrote in the caption.

“While the scale and your strength can be great indicators, for bodybuilders, I’ve always said the best way to measure progress is simply with the mirror!” he exclaimed. The bodybuilding icon believes the mirror provides the most honest feedback on your physical changes. Unlike the scale, which can fluctuate due to water retention or other factors, the mirror reflects your true body composition, Cutler says.

Moreover, strength can be another good measure, but it’s not always consistent. Because “You aren’t always gonna have rockstar workouts,” Cutler notes. Various factors, such as sleep patterns, stress levels, and diet, can impact your performance in the gym. That’s why relying solely on strength as a progress marker might be misleading.

The 50-year-old emphasizes that the mirror tells the story of your progress by showing changes in muscle definition and overall symmetry. Additionally, he suggests to, “surround yourself with a very good eye that gives you the right critique and is brutally honest with your results.”

Recently, the Arnold Classic champ had also addressed the topic of cutting weight, leaving many to wonder if creatine should still be part of their regimen.

Creatine a must-have supplement says Jay Cutler

In a YouTube video, Cutler was asked if you should take creatine while cutting, Cutler’s answer was to the point, “Definitely!” Creatine is a supplement you shouldn’t skip, even when trying to lose weight, as per Cutler. Creatine is popular among fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders for good reason. Cutler explained that while cutting weight, creatine helps maintain strength and aids in recovery. It also adds muscle fullness, which is important during the process of cutting. Cutting can often lead to lower energy, reduced strength, and mood changes due to fewer calories and less water intake.

Despite cutting other supplements, close to competition, Cutler emphasizes the importance of creatine during this phase.“I do cut a lot of my supplementation at least 10 to 14 days out from the competition, so I would definitely use it (creatine) in the cutting phase,” he said.

As Cutler reveals, if you want a perfect way to judge your progress, look in the mirror. And if you’re looking to cut extra weight, creatine can be a helpful addition to your regimen. Will you incorporate this piece of advice into your routine? Let us know in the comments.