Last week I noticed my ankle did not feel quite right. I tried doing some stretches but that did not seem to work. However, since there was no actual pain I continued with the exercises I have been doing before work the last few weeks. These workouts consist of jogging on the treadmill, or walking and jogging intervals on the treadmill, as well as some resistance training like squats, burpees and pop squats. Well Thursday night I noticed some swelling and the not quite right feeling has evolved into discomfort. I have been trying to stay off it, keep it elevated, and iced.
It is no secret that I need to lose some weight. I also want to lose weight and achieve that Devil’s Workshop Goal of fitting into a single digit dress size. While I don’t necessarily talk or write a lot about losing weight it is always on my mind. It has been on my mind more so lately because of a question someone asked me. I am trying to date more often and meet more men and have been using some online dating sites. I have used these sites or similar ones in the past with pretty good responses. However, this time around I have not received a lot of hits or responses when I have reached out. The question I was asked is, “Do you think your weight has anything to do with why you’re not getting many responses this time???”
I know the person who asked the question is coming from a good, genuine, my best interest in mind in place. So I know no hate or negativity is intended. Therefore, I have to really consider the question that is being asked. I believe the there is a strong possibility that the 25 + lbs that I’ve gained since I did online dating 6 years ago could have something to do with the lack of response. Now I know some guys like bigger girls but not all. To be fair I do not prefer a really big guy.
So, since I do want to date more I am accepting that losing weight could help me with that goal. Also If I lose weight I know I can buy a wider variety of clothes that make me feel sexy, I will like what I see in the mirror a bit more and all of that will translate to a sexier, happier me. And what guy could turn that down???
With all that being said this bum ankle is really getting in the way. Since, I am focusing more seriously on losing weight, now is not the time to stop or decrease the intensity of my workouts!!! But since this ankle is going to be a pain in the butt, that is what I am going to have to do; take some time off the treadmill and off of the high intensity burpees and pop squats.
I believe everything happens for a reason so I do not think it is a coincidence that I was presented with this tough question about my weight just days before I realize I have an injury. I think that was God’s way of lighting a fire under my ankle (ha ha I know what you thought I was going to say) in terms of me getting my eating habits under control. I have relied too heavily on my workouts for weight lost and now is my opportunity to focus on eating how I know I should.
So I am reminding myself that weight loss is about 80% diet and 20% exercise. I will keep moving as much as I can with non weight bearing exercise but now is the time for me to get my diet the way I want it to be.
How is your diet? Do you workout? Which one do you rely on more to get in or stay in shape? Have you lost weight with a pain in the butt ankle or other injury???
Less fat = Better Health = Sexier Clothes =More Confidence = More Boys = More Joy
Savvy WorkingGal says
Ugh. That is what I don't like about on-line dating sights. It is so based on appearance. My weight has started creeping up since having my foot surgery two months ago. I am really hopng my doctor let's me get back to it this week. Without exercise I literally have to starve myself to lose weight. Good luck to you.
Joyce Lansky says
You're a better person than me. I think someone asking a question like that knows the hurt and could only ask such a thing to be mean.
Weight loss is a vicious cycle. I've gained and lost a few people in my life, but I keep exercising because if I didn't, I'd weigh 400 pounds. My newest exercise venture is to join the kids' 5K training group at our school. The PE teacher and a bunch of ten year olds spells trouble!
Thanks for the Flashback Fridays.
Joyce
http://joycelansky.blogspot.com
chasingjoy says
Thanks so much for all of your support. I will keep you posted on how I'm doing. I do think my ankle is getting better but I also have a doctor's appointment scheduled.
abookformydaughter.com says
I think eating right and being active will always be a battle—I know it is for me. I also agree that eating well is almost more important than exercise, especially for weight-loss. Last year, I did 2 solid weeks of zero carbs (South Beach Phase 1), I lost 13 pounds and it completely kick-started a long period of eating well. I lost 32 pounds, then summer hit, got out of my routine, gained back 7 lbs., but am now getting back on track. I know you'll do it. Thanks for being so honest—so many can relate.
The Pro Diva says
Girlfriend I feel you! It seems like I am constantly dieting, and I am currently in the process of trying to lose the 15 pounds of "comfort weight" I gained after I got married….three years ago! Since you can't do the workouts you would like, focus on your eating. Hang in there girl! You're not in this alone!
Megan (Best of Fates) says
I feel like maybe I'm just overreacting – but have you seen a doctor? Just to make sure there's nothing actually wrong with your ankle?
Merritt | LiveSimplyLove says
Found you through commenthour too and I totally agree with Nacia. Eating healthy whole foods (closest to the way they were created) is way more important. I do better when I eat several small meals a day rather than 3 big ones. And she's right about this too – the right man will love you no matter how you look. Best of luck!
Mama Spaghetti says
Way to turn a negative situation into a positive one! Kudos to you for making healthy choices in diet and exercise. Good luck!
Nacia says
Hey girl, le me first say I'm so glad you got picked for commenthour! As for the diet thing since having my 3rd baby I've found that eating the riht food is wayyyyy more important then exercise. Don't get me wrong I move around alot chasing after a 9 month old and cleaning up after the other 2, but sticking to only eating when hungry has really helped. To get the initial 10 lbs off I ate vegetarian for about 2 months, now I just eat meat in moderation. As for the man search I found my husband online but he has loved me when I was at my highest and now at my lowest. You just be the best you and the right man will follow. 🙂
Tracey at Small Bright Pebbles says
Good luck. I've had ankle trouble too. Definitely focus on what you can control, and diet is a huge part of that. Would you consider taking up yoga while your ankle gets better?
Jessica @FoundtheMarbles says
I need to lose weight too. I've put on quite a few over the past year just don't have the motivation to commit to taking it off. I'm working on it!
Optimistic Mom says
My diet isn't that great. I try to eat in moderation the things that I really enjoy. Honestly the problem isn't eating too much, it is more like not eating enough. I get so occupied during the day I don't get a well balanced meal. I work out 3-4 times a week for 45-60mins. I rely more on exercise to stay in shape, that is what works for me.
I hope that your ankle is better soon. As you strive to meet your goals, just remember to do it for you and not anyone else. Good Luck!!