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Rethinking Goal Weight
Published: 04/28/2010 by Paige Corley
» Healthy Living
»» Weight Loss
I see it again and again with guests at The Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge; a guest has made unbelievable improvements in just one week in their cardiovascular strength, physical strength, and mental state. Their clothing fits looser than before—and they feel better, look better, and have an amazing positive outlook. But the minute they step on that scale and see anything less than four pounds lost, tears have started and doubt has crept in. It is as if those other factors do not matter at all; as if all the other improvement that were gained in just one week mean nothing.
It is sad to witness this type of reaction. The scale is only one aspect of being healthy. I wish the concept of "goal weight" had never started. Instead we should incorporate a "healthy-feeling" and would include the following factors—all of them as important as the others:
• Positive Mental State: Are you feeling good about yourself and your accomplishments?
• How Your Clothes Fit: Whether it is the ability to wear sleeveless shirts, Capri pants, shorts, or a specific size clothing.
• Cardiovascular Fitness: Can you be active? Can you play with your kids? Competing in a triathlon or running a 10K may be a future goal, but it is not necessary to be considered ‘active’. Start with realistic goals and stay consistent.
• Physical Strength: Are you able to carry your own groceries? Are you able to manage tasks that require some strength?
• Realistic Goal Weight: This does not mean weighing what you weighed when you were 18 or 25. Consult with different sources to find out what your goal weight range should be.
Before the next time you step on the scale, review the other aspects that apply to your "healthy-feeling" goal. Make sure you are not putting too much importance on what the scale says. You just might find that you feel better about yourself, your journey, and your goal towards a healthier you.
Paige has spent nearly two decades in the fitness industry, and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. She is currently the Program Director at The Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge.
