The Sports Bra Challenge 2012

I used to think there was fat and thin. No in between. I used to think that I either had to eat a lot less or exercise like crazy to get rid of those ten pounds that wouldn't seem to budge. I saw health and fitness in black and white. I never once considered there might be a gray area.

And then I started to change the way I eat and adjusted my views on working out and those ten pounds, plus a few more, slid off. I discovered a world of fun workouts and fresh fruit. There is a gray area, and I live my life in it.

When Perri and I got into my building elevator to head downstairs and to The Sports Bra Challenge, I began to shake. For the first time, I felt nervous. Baring my midriff in the middle of New York City? Was I crazy? There was no turning back, so onward we went. I prayed for the best.

Once we got to Union Square, I was amazed at what I saw. Throngs of women in all shapes and sizes, each donning a sports bra and a smile. "Thin" and "fat" were not adjectives that came to mind. More like "beauty" and "self confidence". I remembered why I was there, and though I had considered doing a juice cleanse or a crash diet to drop a couple of pounds and look extra slim for the event, I was so glad I hadn't gone to those extremes. It wouldn't be me. Hell, I was eating cookies the day before. My body is far from perfect but I am so proud of it. And with that, I peeled off my tank top and didn't look back.

Feeling like a rockstar with the best cheerleader and little sis ever. (Photo credit to JG.)

 

With my big sis before we got on our bikes...

...and realized we were riding next to each other! Completely unplanned!

Right before the ride began. 

View from the bike.

View from behind the bike. Putting my hair up. Game time!

I combed through the professional photos and this is the ONLY one I'm (semi-)in. Can you spot me?
(Photo courtesy of SEAK Foundation)

The Sports Bra Challenge was, for me, a reminder of the adjectives for my life. When I look in the mirror, I don't see someone who is thin or fat, beautiful or ugly. I see someone who is happy, someone who works hard and someone who has come a long way. I couldn't have done this a year ago, but I'm already looking forward to SBC 2013.

Thank you to all those who made this happen, all those who did this with me, and the many of you who provided well-wishes and support. You'll never know how much it means, and I couldn't have done it without you. Thank you for helping me reveal myself. I've truly never felt better.