Although the media constantly inundates people with images of skinny women and makes it seem as if skinny is beautiful, there are many good reasons to shift your focus to being strong instead of skinny. If you have been trying to lose weight to become skinny so you can fit into your skinny jeans, it is time to get a new goal. Instead of trying to become skinny, focus your energy on becoming strong. There are so many more positive things about being strong instead of skinny, not the least of which is having strong, defined muscles.
Snapshot Survey
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Please subscribe for your personalized newsletter:
1. Defined Muscles
If you are only concentrated on being skinny, you might miss out on gaining defined muscles. Defined muscles tone your body and look great. They also are a visual representation of how physically fit your body is, and who doesn’t want to be in great shape? To get toned muscles, you need to focus your attention on being strong instead of skinny.
2. Strong Bones
While you can’t see your bones, they are a crucial part of your anatomy that supports your entire body. It is important to keep your bones strong and healthy. However, if you are trying to lose weight to become skinny, you put yourself at risk of losing bone density. Losing weight rapidly can result in a loss of bone density, which is not a good thing. Conversely, if you are trying to build strength, you can actually improve bone density. Strength training is a proven way to help your bones stay strong!
Frequently asked questions
3. Toned Abs
Being skinny does not necessarily mean you will have a tight, toned tummy. It is very possible to be skinny and still have a jiggly tummy. The only way to have toned abs is to build strength, which requires focusing your attention on strength, not size.
To achieve those sculpted abs, engage in exercises that target your core muscles like planks, crunches, and pilates. Consistency is key—you'll need to maintain a routine to see results. It's not just about the workouts, though; proper nutrition plays a significant role as well. Make sure to fuel your body with foods that aid muscle growth and repair, such as lean proteins and complex carbs. Remember, strong is the new skinny, and it's about how you feel, not just how you look.
4. More Energy
Dieting and counting calories can quickly sap your energy. However, eating healthy and getting strong will actually boost your energy. Healthy foods give you the nutrients you need to fuel your body, and strong muscles help propel you through your day.
Exercising and making strength a priority rather than fixating on thinness allows your body to operate with optimal vitality. As your muscle mass increases, so does your resting metabolic rate, meaning you burn more calories even at rest. Moreover, strength training leads to improved sleep and stress reduction, which are essential for sustaining an energetic lifestyle. With your body in top form, you're better equipped to handle daily challenges with gusto, from lifting groceries to chasing after kids, or simply feeling alert and focused at work. Embrace strength for a life brimming with energy.
5. Independence
If you don’t have a lot of strength, you may find yourself asking for help to lift things. Without strong muscles it is very difficult to carry 25 pound bags of pet food or move furniture around your house. However, if you have strong muscles, you can do a lot more for yourself, which will help you feel like a strong, independent person.
6. Look Healthier
Being skinny does not necessarily ensure that you will look healthy. If you are trying to lose weight by cutting calories, you may not be getting all of the nutrients you need to look your best. Yet, if you shift your energy to becoming strong, you will need to fuel your body with healthy food to build strength and help you feel and look your best.
7. Healthier Outlook
Not only will you look healthier, but you will also have a healthier outlook if you stop focusing on being skinny. Instead of focusing on your body image, you will be focusing on feeling strong and powerful and becoming physically fit.
When you turn on the TV or look in a magazine, you are guaranteed to see images of skinny women. However, being skinny is not what is important. It is more important that you feel your best. Therefore, instead of thinking about being skinny, you should try to become strong so you can be healthy and accomplish whatever else you may dream of. How are you going to try to shift your focus to becoming strong?
Feedback Junction
Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge