Body Image: Ability Over Aesthetics
For years, my workouts have been tailored around what I see in the mirror. I have taken countless "before and after" pictures, looking for the slightest physical changes. Flatter stomach, smaller hips, more defined legs. While I have seen progress in my appearance along the way, my focus is beginning to shift from "aesthetics" to "ability."
I recently listened to Sadie Robertson's "Whoa That's Good Podcast." In it, she shared about her postpartum journey. She said a lot of powerful things, but one really stood out to me. She said after giving birth, she looked at her body differently. She no longer cared as much about her appearance, because she was so blown away by what her body had the ability to do. It grew this baby, birthed it, feeds it.
Bringing this back to half marathon training, it amazes me how at one point in time I couldn't finish running a mile, and now I have set a goal to run 13 miles. Then, when you put that into perspective, there are runners out there who can knock out 13 miles on any given day! When I first decided to start this blog, I was researching other successful running blogs to get an idea of how they do it. I came across Hungry Runner Girl. This girl can run. She has done half marathons, marathons, ultras. You name it. All of which she did maintaining close to 6:00 miles!! While that seems like a far-fetched goal for me right now, it motivates me.
In yesterday's blog post, I mentioned how I have started paying less attention to tracking macros and more attention to giving my body the nutrients it needs to perform. I've noticed that is a symptom of caring less about what I see in the mirror and more about the feats my body is able to accomplish. My mental focus is now on performance over physical appearance. In addition, if I am pushing myself to reach a new level of endurance and athletic ability, the physical aspects will follow suit.
I hope this can serve as encouragement to you if you are looking to start an exercise routine or to find a new challenge. The bottom line is to make sure you are moving, that your body is healthy and happy, and you aren't complacent with your workouts. Lord knows I am still a work in progress, but this mental shift has really given me a new sense of confidence.
The Bible says we are made in God's image, and His creation is indeed amazing. We just have to open our eyes to see it!
Here's Sadie's podcast episode. Definitely worth the listen:
Talk soon!
Disclaimer: I am not a nutritionist or a certified trainer. All opinions expressed in my posts are simply to share my fitness journey and what has worked for me. You are encouraged to seek the advice of a medical professional before starting any exercise program.
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