Let’s dive into something that comes up a lot: getting stronger and leaner without having to track every single bite of food. I get it—macro tracking is like having your GPS on at all times. But here’s a little secret: even with the best GPS, we sometimes miss a turn, right? Well, the same goes for tracking macros. There’s more to the journey than just hitting exact numbers.

In fact, when my clients begin tracking macros, I always make sure they learn how to maintain their results without tracking before they stop working with me 1-1. This is because too many people over-reply on tracking apps when they should be just another tool in your tool belt.

The Myth of "Exact" Macros

Let’s be real for a second - macro numbers are not as precise as we are lead to believe. That nutrition label you’re reading? It has a margin of error that would make an accountant cringe. On top of that, your body doesn’t digest food like a calculator computes numbers. Factors like how foods are prepared, the macronutrient makeup of that food, individual digestion differences, and even your current metabolic state mean that macro tracking is a bit like aiming at a moving target. That doesn’t mean it’s useless, but we should remember: macro tracking is an estimate at best.

(Now go forward with this article, but if at any point you want a Macro Calculator that’s actually realistic and easy to implement, click HERE and I’ll send you one for free.)

Why You Should Focus on the Basics

Now, like I said - tracking macros can be useful, especially if you’ve nailed the basics. The problem is, many people skip over the basics and jump straight into the world of “I need exactly 172.8 grams of protein and 159.2 grams of carbs today.” But if you’re still grabbing a pastry for breakfast and relying on protein bars for most of your meals, tracking isn’t going to fix that.

When you focus on eating 90% minimally processed, whole foods, magic happens. Why? Because whole foods are nutrient-dense, satiating, and generally lower in calories, which naturally leads to better body composition over time. No need to measure out 12 grams of almond butter like a chemist.

Luckily, there’s a simpler way to get started that doesn’t require you to track macros at all.

Introducing the Strength Plate Method

The Plate Method is a simple, foolproof way to structure your meals without the stress of tracking.

This also works amazing if you do know how to track, but need multiple tools in your toolbox for travel, eating out, or friendly get togethers.

It's simple, flexible, and doesn't involve weighing or measuring food... Well, not yet. ;)

The basic idea is to divide your plate into different food categories to ensure you're getting a balanced meal. Here’s how it works:

Half of your plate: Non-starchy veggies like leafy greens, broccoli, peppers, and zucchini.
A quarter of your plate: Lean proteins like chicken, tofu, fish, or eggs.
The last quarter: Starchy carbs like rice, quinoa, or potatoes.
Add some healthy fats: Avocado, olive oil, or nuts to complete your plate.

This is an easy, sustainable approach to meal planning that ensures you're eating balanced meals without needing to track a thing.

When You’re Ready to Level Up

Once you've got the hang of the Plate Method, the next step is to make sure you're fueling your body with the right nutrients to support your fitness goals. To take things up a notch, aim for 30-40 grams of protein and 7-10 grams of fiber with each main meal.

Why these two?

Protein helps with muscle repair and keeps you feeling fuller longer. This is crucial whether you're trying to build strength or simply maintain lean muscle.
Fiber keeps your digestive system happy and also helps control hunger by keeping you full.

No need to track, but you will need to start reading food labels using a food scale to weigh out your portions - however, these are foundational nutritional skills that everyone should know how to master, so if you are ready to improve your results further, this is an amazing next step.

Remember: Fuel Your Training, Don’t Starve It

Here’s a fun fact: training on low energy is like trying to drive cross-country on an empty tank. Your body needs fuel—and not just any fuel, but the good stuff—to perform well. When you’re eating enough (and the right foods), your workouts will be stronger, you’ll recover faster, and your metabolism will run like a well-oiled machine.

Why does this matter? When your body is getting what it needs—adequate calories, protein, fiber, and fat—it’s able to build muscle, burn fat, and keep your hormones in check. This all ties into metabolic rate and endocrine function (think testosterone, insulin, thyroid hormones—basically, the ones that keep your metabolism and muscles working). So, if you’re fueling properly, your body will return the favor with better training outcomes and a metabolism that’s actually working for you, not against you.

The Secret Sauce: Consistency > Perfection

Here’s where it gets fun: You don’t need to be perfect. Your body is a pretty forgiving machine. If you focus on these core principles—whole foods, protein, fiber, and fueling your training—you’ll see great results. Consistency is key. Even if you’re not hitting your “macro targets” down to the gram, your body will thank you if you’re providing it with the fuel it needs on a daily basis.

Think of it like this: you’re building a strong, lean body the way a great chef makes a meal. They don’t measure every pinch of salt, but they’ve mastered the basics and make adjustments as they go. The same is true for you—you don’t need to track everything when you’re following a foundation of high-quality, nutrient-dense foods.

Ready for More Personalized Guidance?

The Plate Method is an amazing place to start, but when you're ready to fine-tune your nutrition and get a customized blueprint to fit your unique goals, that’s where my Small Group Coaching Program The Squad comes in. Whether you want to build muscle, lose fat, or just feel stronger, I work with you to create a personalized plan that fits your lifestyle.

Click here to learn more about my coaching program and how to get your own customized nutrition blueprint.

Bottom Line

If you’ve got the foundations locked down—focusing on whole foods, protein, and fiber—you’re already on the path to getting stronger and leaner without obsessing over numbers. The Plate Method provides an easy, practical guide to eating well without tracking. And when you’re ready to level up or need more personalized guidance, The Squad is here to help.

Get Started with Your Customized Blueprint Today!