Weight Gain and Running (I Gained 17lbs and I Don’t Care)
Weight gain is often a topic that brings up a lot of feelings of frustration, self-doubt, and even shame. But what if I told you that your weight shouldn't define your self-worth or hinder your pursuit of an active and fulfilling life? What if I told you that your weight doesn't have to dictate your happiness or success?
Since 2021, I've gained 17 pounds. It wasn’t intentional, but it also wasn't a result of carelessness or a lack of effort. It simply happened.
But here's the crucial part—I refuse to let it deter me from living a full and active life.
Do I wish I could go back to being 250 pounds? Absolutely, not because it's a magic number, but because it would likely mean less pain in my feet. There is a certain level of comfort and ease that can come with a lower weight.
This hint of desire doesn't mean I should give up on the activities (or the foods) I love.
Running is my passion. It's not just a physical activity; it's a form of therapy and a source of joy. So, am I going to let my weight gain stop me from running? Heck no! Instead, I'm committed to working even harder, incorporating more strength training, and prioritizing homemade, nourishing foods.
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In September 2022, I took on a new job as a Financial Advisor at a different bank. Managing my own book of around 300 clients, with assets totalling over $150 million, is no small feat. The pressure that comes with this role is immense. On top of my professional life, I maintain this incredible community.
It's no secret that stress can lead to unhealthy eating habits. Throughout my workday, I often found solace in bags of chips and bakery items to soothe my nervous system. I know it's not the best way to cope, but I'm also aware of what needs to change.
Let's be honest; some of the weight I've gained is likely water weight, maybe around 7 pounds of it. Additionally, during my menstrual cycle, I can balloon up to over 270 pounds. It's a reality that I don't particularly enjoy, but it's a part of life.
What has shifted significantly for me is my perspective. I now prioritize my ability to run and enjoy physical activities over maintaining a specific weight. This shift feels like a natural progression in my wellness journey. It's about cherishing the body I have and celebrating its capabilities.
Life is unpredictable. We can't control everything that happens to us, but we can control how we react. Accepting that this is a lifestyle first, and the impact of the habit will follow, is crucial. It's about finding peace in the journey and not obsessing over the destination.
Weight should not be the sole measure of your success in fitness and well-being. The diet industry has perpetuated the harmful idea that exercise's only purpose is weight loss. But it's so much more than that. It's about improving your health, increasing endurance, and finding happiness in the process.
It's time to shift our focus from the number on the scale to meaningful achievements. Let's applaud improvements in resting heart rate, the ability to run for longer durations, or a decrease in heart rate during exercise. These are the victories that truly matter.
We all have a vision of the ideal body, but what we want and what we get can often be different. Instead of waging war on your body, consider making peace with it. Pick your battles, and remember that weight is not a battle worth fighting. Find what makes you feel at peace, and pursue it wholeheartedly.
My journey with weight gain and running has taught me that our weight should never hold us back from pursuing our passions and living life to the fullest. I won't stop until I help others realize that exercise is not just about weight loss—it's about joy, endurance, and a healthier, happier life. So, don't give up on yourself. Embrace the body you have, find peace in your journey, and keep moving forward.
