Shrug Off Bad Influences

What is the hardest part of training to stay in shape?

It’s not the clean eating, since I prefer to eat healthfully all the time. And it’s certainly not the exercise; that’s the fun part. It’s you’re your family, friends and coworkers who accuse you of being obsessed with diet and exercise!

If you train hard and eat clean, you’ve been there: They tell you should take time off from the gym because you’re working too hard, or to have a slice of pizza already because life’s too short not to enjoy eating. Or the classic, “You’re so skinny, what are you worried about?” And I think I get more pressure now about having a drink now than I did from my peers in high school.

Putting up with criticism about diet and fitness from the most well-meaning people is harder to swallow than junk food. But it comes with the territory. That’s when it’s great to have a few supportive folks in your corner.