Don't Define Yourself By A Number

Although our social security number gives us an identity, do not let a number on the scale dictate how you see yourself.

There are so many factors that go into our weight. It is not just about fat! If you took old school Arnold Schwarzenegger's BMI score (weight in relation to height), he would have been called obese. Because he had such incredible muscle mass, the number on the scale was much higher than the average male of the same height. What people need to consider is body composition. The percentage of body fat we have tells us what type of shape we are in. And when people exercise regularly(4-6 days), including at least 2 days of strength training, your body fat should decrease. And once you add in a healthy diet, you are well on your  way to healthy living.

Now, once you have reached the goal of regular exercise and a healthy diet, there should be no need to even get on a scale! Where your body is after months of exercise and healthy eating is your body in good shape! So, who cares what the number is. Don't worry about it!

And if you start out much heavier than you should be, it may take a little longer to achieve the final goal, but depending on how "good" you are, this will determine how fast these results occur.

This brings me to my last comment. How "good" you are. A common complaint is that it is not happening fast enough. Being good 3 out of the 7 days, however, is not good enough. And skipping out on workouts all week is not being "good". We all need to be good at least 5 out of the 7 days. And in addition, we should be "mindful" 7 out of the 7 days. And this is EVERY week! It is so important to figure out a routine that works for you. That means figuring out when the best time is to exercise each week as well as the foods that satisfy you while being healthy.

This is living a healthy life. And we should all be doing it. Please know, however, I recognize we all go off the wagon sometimes. I certainly have fluctuated in body composition. But, this way of healthy living is the goal, and I just ask that we all do our best!

Good luck!

-J