I’ve always been the skinny one in my family. I was gangly and tall, and people often had trouble guessing my weight, even when I got heavier. Last week, however, I finally got onto the scale to see the damage from taking time off of my workouts and indulging in sodas and fast food. I was flabbergasted: 250 pounds. I’ve never been that heavy. Even 5 years ago, I was no heavier than 225. When I went on my anti-anxiety meds, I had been warned that I would gain some weight. It stopped gaining at 240, and I’d been working tiredly to keep it lower than that. I hovered there for probably 6 months. Now, I’m looking at my weight and asking: HOW?!?

Well, it took some doing, but I finally started paying attention to my diet. I’m working out 4 days a week now, instead of maybe 2. And, I’m looking forward to joining some sort of exercise class this fall with the local community college. I don’t know if I’ll keep up with the follow-through, but 250 was a wake-up call. I’ve cut a lot of fat and soda out of my diet already, and I’ve seen my weight dip a bit, but fluctuation is normal in your diet. I’m going to have to commit to this long-term if I want to see positive results.

In that same vein, I am feeling better than I used to. I have a bit more energy, although not during work. Then again, I’d rather save my energy for when I’m home or out with friends.

Whatever happens, I have to accept that gaining weight is a natural part of aging. I just don’t have to like it. Or allow it. Out! Out, you darn fat!

How have I been working out? Well, I have a home fitness game that basically is a specialized Tae-Bo class. I attend my work’s lunchtime workouts 2-3 times a week, and I am planning to start practicing some boxing moves in my basement once I get some more protective mats for the floor. I’m also hoping to start up archery with the bow I bought during COVID (I’ve bought a replacement string since then), and maybe start practicing knife throwing for some added variety.

We’ll see how everything goes. But the key to everything is healthy meals, regular sleep, and regular exercise. If I’m diligent, I can make it work and get my weight back under control. Even if I can’t, I’ll settle for trading in body fat for muscle.