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Writer's pictureFrancine Delgado-Lugo

Why did I stop Dieting?....


Because my son was watching



When he was 10 years old, he made an exasperated comment about me always dieting. In the moment it felt like I had been sucker punched, but it was also a defining moment for me.


I realized then, that not only was he watching me and making decisions about my body, food and his perception of my self-worth–as well as his own–but also that these decisions and perceptions will carry forward to his future relationships with other women, as well as to himself.


I decided instantly that from that moment forward,I would focus on eating well and feeling well. As a parent I have an obligation to do so. And I did just that. I gave up on minimal eating to be small or starving myself to make weight for competition, then trying to walk around at competition weight all year round. Instead I turned my focus toward eating good food–the kind that helps my body feel strong, nourished and satisfied. I stopped demonizing food and learned to love my body for what it can do rather than punish it for not meeting societal standards.





Naturally, I've gained some weight as I’ve abandoned dieting. Now do I still look in the mirror and wish I still had abs? Yup. Do I wish my biceps and quads would pop? Hell yeah! Who wouldn't, especially given my profession?!


But the satisfaction I get knowing that my now 13 year old gets and sees a better me, and that I'm helping to shape his views on women, strength and health is a far better feeling!


And yes, sometimes I look in the mirror and get all in my feels about what I see, but what can I say? I’m human. The truth is that everyday I make an intentional decision to live to my standards, and everyday that decision is a battle. I lift weights and engage in fitness for my health and for the fun of it. I eat well, to preserve my muscle, and to keep my bones and organs strong. I have a fulfilling career, a loving family and an amazing life. I deserve the space I take in this world.



BIO

Francine Delgado-Lugo is a strength coach and personal trainer. She is co-Founder of Form Fitness Brooklyn, a strength training gym that centers diversity and inclusion in its membership. In 2022, she joined the Board of Directors of MINE where she is currently Board Chair.



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