Its summer and body image and weight issues are on the forefront of many women's minds. I work with a staff of about 100 female servers, and every other thing out of someones mouth is diet, can't eat that, bikini season, boob job, etc. I'm just as guilty as I've recently put on a good 11 pounds (who's counting though) since my competition, but am really trying to go with it. There has been some vocalization of my upset, but seriously, time to get over it.
         Let's face it people, talking about your weight, stressing about what you're putting in your mouth is annoying and obnoxious. Bitching about your heifer thighs around someone who is morbidly obese when you weight 130 is not considerate, and if you are wasting your summer stressing and not enjoying yourself, next thing you know it will be time to whip out the snowsuits again. Some of my male companions have recently voiced their concern over how annoying size obsession is.
        A wise older client, around the age of 66, has told me how she has always thought she was overweight and ashamed of her body. Last week she brought out some gorgeous pictures of her in her 20's, and I was blown away. What a stunner! She is very fit, in great shape, and has had younger women approach her in the gym about her amazing arms and back. She explains the changes she is going through as she ages, and reminds me to appreciate what I have now. She is one of the many that says competition body weight is not   very attractive.
        I have a scale for my clients who are actively trying to lose fat, and weighing once a week can be a good indicator of fat loss. Im so proud of my ladies who are making huge changes in their lives and learning how to eat healthy and exercise. One of my clients is down about 15 pounds this year, steady loss despite timeoff and injury and working around food. There is nothing wrong with making healthy changes, but focusing on a number is silly. Exercise will help you live longer, healthier, happier lives, and quality of life is so much more important than the number on the scale.
       My goal for myself each week is to hit the gym 3-5 times, get 2 bouts of cardio in (other than my exhausting food running shifts) and to feel in control of my eating. Getting rest, no binge drinking, no fast food. Using a number to judge your self worth is insane. At the end of the day no one remembers your weight, but your wonderful attitude and smile :)
         I know I've said all this before about body image, but it is important to remind ourselves. Some people are naturally teeny tiny and tanned and gorgeous. Others are thick and strong, some are a little softer. Variety makes the spice of life, enjoy the summer (when it's not rainy) and don't let your insecurities get the best of you. The better you treat your body, the better you will feel.