Exercise: It’s not about the numbers, at least for me it’s not

Many people workout to lose weight or inches.  I’m not.  I weigh myself at the doctor’s office, and even then I don’t look at the numbers.  For those of you who know me you’re thinking, I’m little I don’t need to worry about these things.  True story, I am little by nature, but that doesn’t mean I can’t get chubby! Plus I think if I focused on what my scale said I would become obsessed and that takes the fun out of everything! 

I work out for reasons that can’t be measured in numbers.

1.    I am happy.  Endorphins make me happy, happy, happy.  And feeling happy keeps me focused on the positive.

2.  I am healthier.  I haven’t had a sinus infection in the longest time, and I used to have at least one a winter.  My unprofessional opinion is that jumping around gets all the junk loosened and draining.   

3.  Fewer migraines and fewer headaches in general.  Yes, fewer migraines.  It’s one of the main reasons why I got back into working out.  My chiropractor recommended rehab, and I figured if I was already strengthening my neck I might as well get the rest of my body involved.

4.  Speaking of the chiro…I haven’t been there in ages.  I used to love going to the chiro and needed to go every 6 weeks.  Now my neck doesn’t stay tense and my hip stays in place.  Keeping all my muscles strong helps out on many levels.

5.  Less stress.  When I lift or run or just jump around endorphins release and my mind clears.  I have been known to come home after a rough day and sweat for 30-45 minutes.  Yes, wine can help too. J

6.  I’m setting a good example for my kids.  My kids don’t sit still, just like me, so being sedimentary isn’t a huge issue.  But they can get sucked into the TV and Wii, and during the winter it’s harder to go outside and build forts.  Plus no matter how active they are, they are still predisposed to hereditary diseases that are less of an issue with a healthy active life style. 

7.  No meds.  I would love to not be on cholesterol meds by age 40.  Unfortunately due to family history medication is most likely the path I’m destined.  But if I don’t try to keep those numbers low with diet and exercise I will never know. 

Bonus: My clothes fit better and toned muscles.  I’m not going to lie, I am enjoying that bonus!  However you’re still never going to see me in a bikini!   

If you’re starting your own fitness journey, good for you!!  It’s a hard journey to start, but once you commit it becomes easier each and every day.  If you need the scale or inches for motivation, go for it, but if you think the numbers are going to get in the way, ignore them.  What truly matters is that you are taking care of your body and promoting healthy living.