I find that many people have misconceptions about how I eat and exercise so I want to explain what living a fit life means to me. Often when someone meets me and learns my age they usually say things to me like “you probably don’t eat a thing” or “you must spend your whole day in the gym” or my absolute favorite “you’re lucky that all you like are steamed fish and veggies.” All of us are guilty of making quick judgments based solely on what we see but these statements couldn’t be further from the truth and that’s why I wanted to write about how fitness impacts the way I live.
I am just like any other woman. Sometimes I’m feeling super lazy and want to stay in my pajamas all day. There are times when all I want to eat are french fries and candy. There are weeks when I feel like a slug and don’t want to expend any more energy than I need to. And contrary to what others think many times I yield to those wishes; but many times I don’t. Being fit and healthy allows me choice and balance without much guilt which is something many women struggle with. I am in better tune with myself which gives me a tremendous sense of:
Power. Power of being in control and in charge of me is what I love the most. I may succumb once in awhile but not for long and not very often.
Acceptance. I know I work out hard and eat correctly most of the time but I’m still not perfect. I never will be. But I know how hard I try and I’ve learned to accept me for who I am and what I look like. How many women over fifty can say that? How many women of any age can say that? This doesn’t mean that I don’t have any body issues, but it does mean that I am basically pretty content with where I’m at.
Accomplishment. I do what others say, dream, and wish to do. I am that person who exercises regularly and eats correctly most of the time. And it is not easy but I prevail. I do something that most people only talk about and that give me a great sense of accomplishment..
Most women think of diet and exercise as punishment. In reality they are the best gift you can give yourself. They are free and accessible. And the impact being fit has on your life is immeasurable.
Make sure to read these other posts about why fitness is important to me:
6 REASONS WHY WOMEN OVER 50 SHOULD EXERCISE CONSISTENTLY
NEVER LOSE SIGHT OF YOUR GOALS
