Compliment or Criticism?

G

GrettaB

Cathlete
I'm 5'1" and 110 pounds, which is in the ideal range for my height. I've been maintaining my current weight for about a year and am finally starting to see the definition I've worked toward for four years now. People are beginning to comment on my leanness and I often hear "you're too skinny," although I don't think that's true--I'm muscular and defined.

Are people unaccustomed to seeing fit individuals? Do I seem so small to them because they're all overweight? Is it merely jealousy because I cultivated the discipline necessary to achieve these results? I was overweight my entire life and managed to go from 202 pounds to 110, and it was the hardest thing I've ever done. The last thing I want to do is obsess over the weight I'm supposed to be, but I am really at a loss as to how to deal with the comments, particularly when they're made in front of my husband, who seems to share that opinion.

Can anyone offer some advice or support? It would be greatly appreciated!
 
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I think we've discussed this here several times before. People are going to comment on other people's weight, no matter what the range. That doesn't make it right, but it's reality.

I have gotten comments for years about being slender (5'7" 115 lbs). You know... the typical.... "Don't go outside on a windy day or you'll blow away!". Or "don't you ever eat?"

In your case, you've worked hard to get where you are. In my case, I work hard, but I've always been small and sometimes even struggle to gain weight. Despite the differences, the bottom line is the same... commenting on someone's weight is rude.

My advice. Ignore it. I doubt they are jealous. I doubt they are trying to be hurtful. I've just come to the conclusion they are clueless. There's not much you can do about that. Just hold you head high and know that you have accomplished a lot. You look good and feel good, and that's really all that matters.

Congratulations on your success!
 
If you are happy with your weight, then don't worry about what anyone else thinks. People always seem to have something to say. For ex. when my hair is long, people say I like it better short, when it is short I hear I like it better long. I have come to realize as long as you are happy with yourself, that's all that really matters! ;)
 
It's their opinnion and it only counts if you want it to! If you are happy then who cares what they think!? I recently lost 10 pounds and have been told I'm too skinny but was also told that when I was 10 pounds heavier too so go figure! :rolleyes: Everyone has their own tastes/opinnions on what looks good or what they find attractive, etc but it's YOUR body so it's YOUR choice! You've obviously worked hard! I am sure you look fantastic! :) Congrats on your achievements!
 
The individuals in the United States and many other countries are increasing in size. Due to this, the perception of what a normal size should be is also increasing. A person that is technically overweight now appears to be normal. So, a person that is at their correct weight looks really thin now. I don't think people are trying to be rude or mean...it's simply that their perception is skewed.

I also wanted to mention that if you struggled with your weight for a long time then it could also be that people are just shocked to see you at your current weight. Almost 100lbs is alot to loose (good for you for doing it too!).

The next time anyone says anything, smile and say "Thanks! I feel great!".

If they continue to make comments, then pull out the stretch bands and make them do firewalkers with you until they quiet down! ;) I suppose challenging them to a pushup contest would work too....
 
After giving birth to my second child I increased working out and eventually lost all my weight (I was at my smallest ever because of weight training - still pretty much am). My MIL, who is hungarian, said to me at the time "you know zsa zsa gabor says an aging woman must choose her body or her face". She then stared at me as if to say - hmmmph seems you chose your body. nice.
 
GrettaB---Congrats on you weight loss and being able to maintain it! I too have lost some weight and people do make comments. But, I am happy and thats all that matters. People's remarks and comments can be taken several ways. I would not let it bother you. Are you happy? Thats all that matters.

Just know that most people act as if they do not care about there size, but deep down they do. So when they are around others who are fit, they may feel uneasy because thats what they really want for themselves. They just dont have the motivation and dedication to succeed. So they make comments to make themselves feel better!

Keep up the good work!!! And, know use Cathlete's are always here for ya!!!:D
 
yes, yes, yes to what everyone has said - especially replying "thanks and I feel great!" Keep your head up high and don't let anyone bring you down:)

Great idea about giving them a fire walker band or having them do pushups! LOL!
 
Thanks, you guys, it's so nice to know that other people have similar experiences! I guess I'm a little overly sensitive to weight comments after hearing for so long, "You have such a pretty face..." Being on the opposite side of the continuum isn't something I'm used to yet--and it IS a huge change. That fat mentality is difficult to overcome!

But size 2 pants are worth any amount of BS!!! :p
 
Congrats on your hard work, success and terrific weight loss!! I can't add anything here that has not been said already.

I am your height and my weight has fluctuated from 105 lbs-120 lbs many times. On the small end of the scale, I was told I look like "a skeleton", on the high end of the scale, I was told I looked "plump" :confused:. I have come to the conclusion that people are always gonna have something to say about something. What really matters is how you feel about yourself.

Congrats!

Natasha
 
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How YOU feel about your body is what matters. You be what makes YOU happy. People will comment for many reasons that are listed by yourself and these fine ladies. This forum is the greatest when it comes to support.

Unfortunately, none of my friends understands my lifestyle - the dedication and discipline in nutrition, exercise, and overall wellness. But I see and hear myself in almost every posting here. I am most grateful to all of you...

Life is too short. No regrets. To pass on what I read on the back of someone's car this morning: One life! Live it! I say 'YEAH!'
 
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