Vanity vs. Health

When it comes to working out and "eating right" there is a fine line that often walked between health and vanity. Every person is unique, and has unique physical characteristics about them. The "super lean guy" hates himself because he can't put on weight and feels inferior because of his size. The hugen can't stand when he looks at himself because even though he can bench press 400 lbs, he has no definition. The culture we live in puts all kinds of terrible pressure on us to forfiet this idea of "uniqueness" and all strive to look like the guys on the cover of "muscle and fitness," or the girl on the cover of "maxim." All men are supposed to look like Ivan Drago in Rocky IV- you know huge broad shoulders, massive chest, and chiseled abs. All women are supposed to look like Marrissa Miller- tight stomach, well endowd, and hour glass shape.

If these are you goals, then I suggest you quit your job, say goodbye to your friends, family, and social life, invest in a personal trainer and nutritionist, and consult a plastic surgeon. Working out and eating right are not all about "the look."

Sure it's niced to be noticed once a while for how we look but if that is the only reason for exercise then get used to dissappointment because you'll never be satisfied.

We eat healthy so that we can get the vitamins, minerals, and other essentials our body needs in order to live (and workout). We exercise and workout so that we can use our bodies to train, to relieve stress, to boost energy, to function properly, and to feel good about ourselves.

The only thing that matters is your own personal goals and desires coupled with your own willingness to stay dedicated. If your goal is to run a half marathon, then make the necessary sacrifices and train according to your schedule and run a half marathon. If your goal is to lose weight, then make the necessary sacrifices to eat healthy and exercise regularly. The only person you can blame is yourself if your not reaching your goals. But remember to not be so hard on yourself either, set realistic goals and reach them. Congratulate yourself for a job well done, and set higher goals. If you continue on this path you will, without a doubt, be satisfied.