I don't have the body of a model...and?

Feb 24, 09 12:23

Post #1 of 96 Views: 10924

I have a friend who is a professional ballerina, and not that long ago her husband told me that she was complaining about having no aerobic base. Dancing is apparently completely anaerobic. Her husband suggested that she start running to which she replied, "I don't want my thighs to get big". Let's ignore the fact that that's inaccurate unless we're talking soccer or jumping hurdles.

This got me thinking though, what is wrong with big thighs!?! I know there is a certain "look" that dancers need/want to maintain, but what about the rest of us? I for one, am tired of seeing scrawny models on the covers of supposed fitness magazines. There are too many young girls out there going through extreme measure to be pencil thin because that is how they view sexy.

Well, here are my "stats"...let's celebrate the athletic body type. (Note: I am not trying to brag about myself. As a constant, middle-of-the-pack AGer, I am well aware that there are more athletic women out there than me. I just want us all to be proud of the results that our hard work gets us.)

I am 5'3" and 120 lbs - this doesn't get much lower by time I get to my peak performance shape. (I love to eat!!)

When I buy jeans that fit my waist, the thighs are always tight. This makes me happy because it means they are strong enough to pedal through long miles on the bike.

My arms are not sticks either, which can only mean they will pull me through a long swim...even when I feel like I'm drowning.

I will never have abs...in high school I weighed 105 and I still couldn't find an abdominal muscle in there.

And on a note that doesn't have anything to do with an athletic body...I love all of the tan lines from my socks, shorts, and sports bras. It means I am fortunate enough to go outside to exercise.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 12:29

Post #2 of 96 Views: 10917

5'5", 130lbs +/- 2lbs. Gave up trying to emulate my long-legged, fast runner sister a few years ago...now have a prominent butt (result of playing lots of squash) and my lats/shoulders have noticed I'm swimming again so have popped out more recently...always been proud of my flat stomach though (when I haven't eaten too much or eaten something my body didn't like!!)...hey gotta take what you can; after a while I realised I was more pleased with my body's "functionality" than how it looks....

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 12:32

Post #3 of 96 Views: 10914

Actually, running would make her thighs bigger and calling that inaccurate is a falsity to me. I was a semi-professional (semi meaning unpaid) ballet dancer for many years. I was also the only one with "real" thighs because of my running. I can definitely understand her will not to have her thighs get bigger and I feel there is nothing wrong with that as she is a professional ballet dancer. I would feel the exact same way as her.

______________________________________
I know I'm promiscuous, but in a classy way

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [D!] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 12:45

Post #4 of 96 Views: 10896

I absolutely agree with you that she should not want to do activities that would make her thighs bigger because she is a dancer.

When I said that it was inaccurate that her thighs would get bigger from running, I was picturing the leaner legs of say a pro marathoner (more muscular, but thinner than a cyclist's or a triathlete's IMO). I could be completely wrong that even those thighs are bigger than those of a dancer's, and apparently am...I wasn't trying to be misleading though.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 15:10

Post #5 of 96 Views: 10808

i was a student a professional ballet school most of my life. We were not permitted to participate in gym class or anything physcial outside of our ballet classes because of the risk of developing the wrong muscles. Yes, marathoners have slim thighs, but its not beautiful to look at and who would want to see paula radcliffe in a tutu?

Dancing is not anaerobic. Nor is it an aerobic exercise unless you're doing jazz or tap dancing. Most dancers spend 6+ hours a day in rehersals and while you may sweat buckets do to the effort, your heart rate is not going up.

you're right, if you're not a ballerina then there is nothing wrong with big thighs. but ballet dancers spend all day in pink tights infront of a mirror while multiple people tell them what they are doing is wrong. ballet is incredibly tough on your mental health and body image and I urge you not criticize your friend for something you cannot understand.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 16:41

Post #6 of 96 Views: 10759

An ongoing discussion between my husband and myself is the size of my butt. I want to know, as in 'see', how big it is (from his perspective). So when we are out in public and I see a backside that I think might resemble mine I'll point it out and ask, "What about that one". So far this discussion has been going on for 3 years, with no conclusion. The last time I found one I thought could be a match I asked him, to which his reply was, "Honey, it's really hard to find a butt that resembles yours because your legs are so much bigger than the typical woman". I take that as an absolute compliment. My jeans are ALWAYS tight on my legs. Although I still haven't seen my backside at least I know that my body, although imperfect, is Athletic and I know it can carry me over many many miles. I'll take that over the airbrushed perfectness we see as our (vomit) 'role models'.

____________________________
Life is Short...Run Long

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [slink] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 16:42

Post #7 of 96 Views: 10758

but its not beautiful to look at and

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I like how my thighs look. I really like how they look when they are in marathon shape. :-)

But yes, professional ballerinas normally have to maintain a certain body shape or they'll lose their jobs.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [PirateGirl] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 16:44

Post #8 of 96 Views: 10756

Your thighs are WAY hotter than Paula Radcliffe's.

______________________________________
I know I'm promiscuous, but in a classy way

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [D!] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 16:59

Post #9 of 96 Views: 10748

But no where near as fast :-(

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [PirateGirl] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 17:21

Post #10 of 96 Views: 10734

I bet you'd kick her ass at Kona though!

______________________________________
I know I'm promiscuous, but in a classy way

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 17:29

Post #11 of 96 Views: 10732

I ride and run with SISTER frequently, and let me tell you, she gets a lot of second and third looks! I'll never forget the day we flatted right in front of the homeless shelter at lunchtime. Sister is only 28 and didn't lack offers for help. We should all feel good about what we do and who we are regardless of thigh size. BTW, we can change our own tires!

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 19:30

Post #12 of 96 Views: 10672

I'm with you. I had a girlfriend of mine that was a dancer for awhile - while she did the whole gamut of dance, she spent the most time on point....she was naturally stick-thin and un-athletic outside of dance. In short, she had the "perfect" dancers body. She hated it. She was lucky enough to be able to eat whatever she wanted and stay a size 2, but she couldn't do anything "fun"...she had to stand in tights, tutus and froth and get yelled at and constantly told she was doing things wrong.

I've never been stick-thin. I'm currently hovering around 158 and I'm 5'6. I wear a 10. For the most part, I'm pretty happy with my body. There are days I'd love to weigh less and there are days where I know I weigh more. But I'm ahead of the bell curve, I can do an Ironman and I train 4 - 6 days a week becuase I like to.

Maybe I don't understand it, but I have no desire to do something where the image of my body and the way other people see it determines my success, ever.

AW

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 24, 09 20:08

Post #13 of 96 Views: 10660

Nothing wrong with big thighs. In fact, on the velodrome, they are very prized as you go fast. The gals here measure them and aim to get them larger.

Also, one of the gals I race with is on a crusade to get Michael Ball to make "kierin cut" jeans. It started as a joke, but she's actually been in contact with his PR dude.

http://bethbikes.blogspot.com/.../08/r-and-quads.html

clm

clm
Nashville, TN
https://twitter.com/ironclm | http://ironclm.typepad.com

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 25, 09 6:27

Post #14 of 96 Views: 10557

My poor hubby has a constant battle with me.

I was a gymnast and sprinter for 15+ years. Clearly, I don't have the skinniest of thighs. I'm okay with them, but I gain weight in my abdomen easily...because I have NO torso. I am 5'4" and ride a 54 bike. I am all leg.... whatever that means for someone 5'4".

I'm lighter and fitter, faster & stronger than I ever have been, but you can count on me wondering what I "really" look like. I think that is because if jeans fit my waist they're tight on my quads... and so I feel "fat" even though they are a size 2 or 4.

Wish I could remove the chip someone implanted in my brain when I was doing gymnastics 4-5 hours a day that makes me think that!!!

Tiger for Life -- War Eagle!

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [slink] [ In reply to ]

Feb 25, 09 6:31

Post #15 of 96 Views: 10556

The point of this was never to pass judgement on my friend. I love her dearly and I think she has a beautiful body. As I said in my OP, I understand that dancers have a certain look to maintain. It is, of course, her job.

My point was that we should all, triathletes, dancers, and everyone in between, be proud of the shape that all of our training puts our bodies in. I think muscular thighs and ripped calves are hot, but I also think the long and lean muscles that dancing has provided my friend are beautiful.

My hope is that if there are enough women out there with bodies shaped by hard work, then maybe there will be fewer girls trying to emulate runway models.

For example, my younger sister played soccer in highschool. This made her thighs huge! All muscle, but still huge for her 4'11'' frame. She didn't think that being "thick" was okay so she dieted solely on oranges and crackers...openly. Why didn't anyone, my parents included, say anything to her?! When she lost weight and bragged about it, she was only given positive reinforcement. Thankfully she finally got hungry and the crazy cycle stopped and hasn't returned, but it's unfortunately not the same for everyone.

For girls like her, that's why I started this thread. Definitely not to bash my friend or ballerinas in general. I know that what they do is extremely difficult on their bodies.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 25, 09 9:39

Post #16 of 96 Views: 10474

Yay for a wide variety of healthy athlete bodies!
I don't think I will ever have the super slim thighs of a "jeans model" but I think I've stopped caring! I have naturally meaty thighs and I just have to go with it.
I am working to enjoy my fitness, figure, and being in shape.

I'm about 5"5" and 130-135 (seems to depend on the scale at the dr's office, I refuse to own a scale) and wear 4-6 size clothes. Most people think I weigh more like 110.
I'm good with it.

I would like to see more celebrating of a wider range of shapes in the media, but that's like hoping I'll hit the lotto when I never play the lotto.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 25, 09 10:46

Post #17 of 96 Views: 10431

I'm surprised to be the first guy on this thread, but for what it's worth, tone is much more important than size. Not over-the-top guy-like definition, just the tone that comes with fitness. Much better than skinny models any day.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 25, 09 11:38

Post #18 of 96 Views: 10396

I think we could almost be twins:) I'm 5'3" and fluctuate between 110--115. I always have problems buying jeans as the thighs are too tight in comparison to the waist. I love my thighs. It is a direct reflection of how hard I work and I get a lot of --wow, your legs are muscular--when I'm in public. My stomach, on the other hand, has never been flat either. When I first started running, I dropped to 99 lbs before I realized I had to eat more calories, and still--no flat stomach but a very shrunken chest!!! I hate that.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [kben102] [ In reply to ]

Feb 25, 09 16:39

Post #19 of 96 Views: 10307

In Reply To:

When I first started running, I dropped to 99 lbs before I realized I had to eat more calories, and still--no flat stomach but a very shrunken chest!!! I hate that.

You shouldn't hate it because from a physiological perspective, it's good. Breasts tissue goes first because it's not vital for survival. Abdominal fat protects vital organs which is why it's last to go.

I will never understand the desire every woman but me seems to have with wanting breasts. Ugh. They're pillows of fat! I don't get it. Then again I'm the wanna be runway model girl

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Feb 25, 09 19:42

Post #20 of 96 Views: 10241

Fun pillows!

We all just need to do the best with what we've got and be happy for it.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Feb 25, 09 19:53

Post #21 of 96 Views: 10235

you can use them like a little shelf to sit stuff on when you're lying on the couch reading!

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [QRgirl] [ In reply to ]

Feb 26, 09 1:36

Post #22 of 96 Views: 10203

In Reply To:

Fun pillows!

LOL. Guys seem to think so at least. But whenever I ask "so what exactly is the fascination with breasts?" I have never gotten a satisfactory answer to that question. It's always "because we don't have them."

I will stop hijacking the thread :P

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Feb 26, 09 5:16

Post #23 of 96 Views: 10187

I like have small breasts--they don't get in the way of training, but I would like a flat stomach. What you said makes since about protecting vital organs. I'm only 5'3" so I'm also a bit compressed:)

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [kben102] [ In reply to ]

Feb 26, 09 6:20

Post #24 of 96 Views: 10168

Small breasts mean not rolling over in your sleep from one side to another only to wake up because now you're lying on one and it HURTS.

(been there, done that, got 'em chopped off to end the constant back and neck pain, reduce migraines and best of all, not crush them under me in my sleep or have a partner roll onto one in HIS sleep. Imagine waking up to a simulated mammogram every night...)

There is no justice, there is only me. -- Death

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sabrekitty] [ In reply to ]

Feb 26, 09 12:51

Post #25 of 96 Views: 10062

I'm a big thigh (and calf) girl too and I just want to say thank goodness for jeans with stretch. Without them I'd be showing everyone my butt all the time. I have to admit that I covet the shapely gazelle legs of my husband sometimes because even though I'm 5'7" and 120 lbs my thick legs always make me feel big. And incidentally, when I starting running (especially marathon distances) my thighs got smaller, not bigger.

But I like what a friend of mine once said.....big legs means we're stable in high winds!

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Feb 27, 09 5:29

Post #26 of 96 Views: 6432

Reminds me of a sig. line I saw recently -
"You don't get big legs watching telly"

"Here's how you run a marathon. Step 1: You start running. Step 2: There is no step 2." - Barney (How I Met Your Mother)

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Mar 1, 09 15:33

Post #27 of 96 Views: 6305

One gal who races in the NY area and consistently finishes on the podium has been a Radio City Rockette for over 10 years. So I guess you can be a professional dancer and a great triathlete :)

Team Danbury Audi - Triplet Mommy!!!

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [jellyfish1] [ In reply to ]

Mar 2, 09 5:04

Post #28 of 96 Views: 6236

If I weren't a triathlete, dance would be my second choice sport. I LOVE ballet.

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 2, 09 10:45

Post #29 of 96 Views: 6164

Paula Newby Fraser practiced ballet for years as a child and teen. I think her tri career was somewhat of a success!

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [sto] [ In reply to ]

Mar 2, 09 19:11

Post #30 of 96 Views: 6075

This discussion intrigues me for a few reasons -- it sounds like a lot of us are former gymnasts and/or dancers and/or soccer players (I'm 3 for 3 there!). What's the common thing that draws us to triathlon? In my case I've always been a cyclist and swimmer, in addition to the soccer etc.

Also, while not a representative sample, it's interesting how many folks who have chimed in on this thread are around 5'3". I'm 5'3", have the thighs you'd expect from a cyclist-soccer player-skiier, and weigh between 115-122 lbs. depending on training, hormones, and so on. I wear a size 2 despite the muscular thighs and shoulders. I never think I'm short unless I'm around tall people who don't look around them and basically walk through me. How different is the experience of the, say, 5'8" ST'er?

Interesting; thanks for raising it!

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [lkkinetic] [ In reply to ]

Mar 2, 09 20:50

Post #31 of 96 Views: 6062

I guess I should chime in since you guessed my height right on the nose!

I'm 5' 8", grew up playing soccer, softball, and running. Soccer and softball stopped when I injured my knee during a soccer game. I continued running and found triathlon in undergrad.

I usually tend to weigh in the low 120s. I am by no means muscular, but I do have an athletic body. I don't feel like I am significantly taller than a lot of people, even with my 4 inch heels on tonight ;-)

Come crawling faster

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [lkkinetic] [ In reply to ]

Mar 3, 09 4:23

Post #32 of 96 Views: 6041

Drawn to triathlon because I like suffering I think...

Played soccer kindergarten through 6 grade. Danced for one year (first grade - tap - didn't like it). Gymnastics for a couple years, liked the bars but was never very good at it.

Swim lessons ever since I was a baby and that, I took to.

I am 5'6" but haven't weighed myself since early December :-) I'm trying not to care about that number, there are far more important numbers, like run pace ;-) that said I averaged 6:36s for 4 mi of my run this morning, which is awesome, yet cannot get rid of the voices as I was getting dressed this morning that swear I have too much puppy fat on my tummy and hips.

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Last edited by: tigerchik: Mar 3, 09 5:30

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [lkkinetic] [ In reply to ]

Mar 3, 09 6:52

Post #33 of 96 Views: 6018

I'm 5'9.5". About 140 lbs, give or take a few. I am at my heaviest snce I was a fat kid. Ideally, I'm around 135....it used to be easy to drop weight, but as I've gotten older, well... it's gotten harder :D.

I came to this sport b/c after my last knee surgery, I had to give up 7 dpw running (I grew up a runner...also played softball and basketball--which I LOATHED, basketball, I mean). Picked up a bike, learned to swim, and there you go. I am built like the bastard love child of a cyclist and a swimmer. :D Broad shoulders, no waist, solid legs. I'm not fat, but no one will ever mistake me for a long distance runner, despite running being my background. I suppose you could say I have the body of a triathlete. All around solid and muscular, neither waifish nor fireplug.

I used to be a size 10 or so...but now, clothing seems to have gotten bigger, and I am a size 8, most of the time.

mmm-mmm-Momo Charms
Handmade beverage charms, jewelry, and miscellanea
http://momocharms.wordpress.com

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [lkkinetic] [ In reply to ]

Mar 3, 09 10:28

Post #34 of 96 Views: 5979

Everyone seems so short...

I'm 6', currently weighing in around 175lbs. I was never a dancer, I have two left feet. Same issue with gymnastics. I was never a soccer player, team sports were never my forte. In a former life, I played with swords Ah Lot and dabbled around in various martial arts forms (tae kwon do, aikido, kickboxing... whatever struck my fancy that semester). I came into this from cycling because it was a new challenge in my second life and am drawn to continue because when I'm out there, I'm measuring myself against myself, not all of you little whisps and speedy athletic ladies. I am drawn to it because I get more sense of power in endurance sporting than I did as the Amazon Fighting Machine, and by power I mean only power over my own body and self.

Just watch out if I drop another 10lbs and get to where I think I'll be at the ideal weight for my build. I might actually be *competitive* then.

There is no justice, there is only me. -- Death

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sabrekitty] [ In reply to ]

Mar 3, 09 10:33

Post #35 of 96 Views: 5978

"everyone seems so short"

Hey now, I'm waiting for my next growth spurt. I'm still young, it might happen!!!!

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 3, 09 10:38

Post #36 of 96 Views: 5976

LOL

Hey, at least you didn't have dreams of being a jockey dashed before you even got out of grade school!

There is no justice, there is only me. -- Death

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [lkkinetic] [ In reply to ]

Mar 3, 09 11:27

Post #37 of 96 Views: 5956

I agree - very interesting thread. I would guess I am on the opposite end of the spectrum from others in both age and body size. I am 51 years old, 5'11" and weigh about 145lb. I have had to learn to readjust calorie intake as I have gotten older and the metabolism just doesn't seem to work the same anymore. The other things that has become apparent is the important of rest days to prevent injuries and that I just have to deal with the fact that I am not going to have the same finish times I use to have. That is a difficult one for me because I was never fast to start with and it sometimes becomes discouraging to work this hard and not get the same result. That is not true for everyone as there are a lot of very fast older ladies out there and I admire them greatly! I am also a product of the pre-Title 9 era; I had very limited exposure to sports in high school. We had to beg our athletic director to let us play full court basketball and to let us spike the ball in volleyball. I am glad that has changed! Due to some ankle/lower leg orthopedic issues as a young child, I was encouraged to take swimming lessons. I continued to swim for many years (didn't have many opportunities to do this competively). I did take up running in my early 30's and then triathlons in my 40's. Not sure what new sport my 50's will bring!

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [lkkinetic] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 0:05

Post #38 of 96 Views: 5883

Chiming in from the tall crowd:

I'm 5'9,5" and weigh 137 in the off season, and will get down to 133-134 in season for half's. 135 is a very clear benchmark as to when I have to start drastically altering my diet to get under that number. I do weigh myself pretty much every day and don't subscribe to the throwing away the scale philosophy. I want to be as fast as I can, and weight is a big part of that. I definitely do feel big on the start line - I feel like I just tower over everyone. For those other tall girls out there, I comfort myself with the fact that chrissie wellington is 5'9" and races at 132, so she is reasonably close to what i am!!

It is weird how clothes really aren't built for athletes. Its hard to find jeans that fit and my shoulders are pretty big as well. Unfortunately, as others have mentioned I seem to lose the weight from my chest first, and stomach/thighs last. Quite frustrating. I hope one day to have actual defined abs, but for now i just settle with flat.

"What am I on? I'm on my bike busting my ass for six hours a day. What are YOU on?" - Lance Armstrong

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [flyer521] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 8:15

Post #39 of 96 Views: 5833

In Reply To:

Chiming in from the tall crowd:

I'm 5'9,5" and weigh 137 in the off season, and will get down to 133-134 in season for half's. 135 is a very clear benchmark as to when I have to start drastically altering my diet to get under that number. I do weigh myself pretty much every day and don't subscribe to the throwing away the scale philosophy. I want to be as fast as I can, and weight is a big part of that. I definitely do feel big on the start line - I feel like I just tower over everyone. For those other tall girls out there, I comfort myself with the fact that chrissie wellington is 5'9" and races at 132, so she is reasonably close to what i am!!

It is weird how clothes really aren't built for athletes. Its hard to find jeans that fit and my shoulders are pretty big as well. Unfortunately, as others have mentioned I seem to lose the weight from my chest first, and stomach/thighs last. Quite frustrating. I hope one day to have actual defined abs, but for now i just settle with flat.

Me? Is that you? :p

mmm-mmm-Momo Charms
Handmade beverage charms, jewelry, and miscellanea
http://momocharms.wordpress.com

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [flyer521] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 9:49

Post #40 of 96 Views: 5811

To quote my doctor this morning "You're tall and have large bone structure, if you're going to keep doing ultrarunning, you need glucosamine."

I only look "normal" among the men, and even then I'm tall. Around you women I look like a freaking giant. If you don't like feeling big on the starting line, look for me. I'll make you look like a dwarf. Seriously. In fact, here's an example. I'm the one that's a full head taller than any of the other girls.

There is no justice, there is only me. -- Death

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 10:00

Post #41 of 96 Views: 5809

Just for the record, and not to hijack...but if you think you've got "puppy fat" then I'm packing a damn Great Dane/St. Bernard/Great Pyrenees combined. You hold 6:36, I get happy when I hold 9:28.

I'm good with being a bigger chick, though there's always the wish to be smaller. I think if I were a string-bean, though, I would lose a lot of what makes me "me"....

Tell the voices to go to hell. You're an athlete, you do what you can do and you reap the rewards for it. You're doing a good job - your run pace says so. Just wanted to chime in on that one.

AW

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sabrekitty] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 10:06

Post #42 of 96 Views: 5803

So here's what I want to know: do guys think about their bodies like girls do? It is such a "big" thing for us - how we look - athletes or non athletes. Do guys think about height, 'puppy' fat (LOL, this is just how I manage to be ok with it, make it something cute and funny), how their legs look, etc?

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [AWARE] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 10:08

Post #43 of 96 Views: 5802

In Reply To:

I think if I were a string-bean, though, I would lose a lot of what makes me "me"....

One of the best questions I was ever asked was, "if you don't like your own body, whose would you trade for?"

I thought about that for a bit and realized I wouldn't trade with anyone.

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 10:27

Post #44 of 96 Views: 5796

They absolutely do. They just internalize it (and talk about it externally) much different than women do...

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mts] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 11:02

Post #45 of 96 Views: 5785

Oooh lookit, I caught one!

In Reply To:

They just internalize it (and talk about it externally) much different than women do...

Like, how? I'm honestly curious. You hear us chat and whine about it all the time, hips and tummies and thighs and breasts. Spill.

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 11:06

Post #46 of 96 Views: 5782

In Reply To:

One of the best questions I was ever asked was, "if you don't like your own body, whose would you trade for?"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39co0zKbQAQ

<If you're gonna be dumb, you gotta be tough>
Get Fitter!
Proud member of the Smartasscrew, MONSTER CLUB
Get your FIX today?

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Khai] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 11:15

Post #47 of 96 Views: 5779

You're way cuter than he is, Khai.

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 11:27

Post #48 of 96 Views: 5771

My hubby recently asked me if I thought his bald spot was getting worse and complained that it was so hard for him to lose his abdominal fat...what we'd call muffin top. They are absolutely concerned about what they look like.

And in regards to your puppy fat, I gotta be right there with AWARE in that I got more than a puppy hanging out with me. Maybe that's why I keep taking in strays...to keep me company.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 11:44

Post #49 of 96 Views: 5760

Humor for many men is a sign of insecurity or concern.

For example, when I joke about my "buddha" with my buddies and wife...and it may seem like l don't give a shit. Like, "I'm a married guy with a gut, ha ha, that's the way it should be...pass me another Ho Ho and malted whole milk." But deep down I feel like a bloated cow that can't recapture the slim sexy beast I once was in college...and it bugs me.

Men are JUST as concerned/conscious about their bodies as women. I do think we're lazier about doing something about it. Another thing... men are less critical about other guys' bodies than women are about other womens'.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mts] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 11:47

Post #50 of 96 Views: 5758

Go over to the tri forum around race season and you will be shocked at the "race weight" threads that go on over there. On this forum we encourage women to be realistic with their body types, encourage each other to be happy with who we are and discuss healthy ways to lose weight.

Over there, it is all about how to starve yourself into losing those last 3 lbs and getting down to 5% body fat. It really is unhealthy and scary.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Jen

"In order to keep a true perspective on one's importance, everyone should have a dog that worships him and a cat that will ignore him." - Dereke Bruce

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [JenHS] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 11:50

Post #51 of 96 Views: 5202

In Reply To:

Over there, it is all about how to starve yourself into losing those last 3 lbs and getting down to 5% body fat. It really is unhealthy and scary.

I totally agree.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mts] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 12:13

Post #52 of 96 Views: 5195

In Reply To:

They absolutely do. They just internalize it (and talk about it externally) much different than women do...

I am not sure about the internalization, but I agree about the difference in talking about it externally: I am for example very annoyed by my genes who insist on packing pretty much all the body fat I have on my tummy (6-pack, ha, even when I was 6'/160# there was still a layer of stuff there, let alone now at 6'/175#) and by my back genes (thanks dad) that seem to prevent me from having a super straight back: Since there's not much I can do about either of those I gripe about them fairly regularly to my g/f and to my best friend.

In my experience the womens are a lot more likely to talk about 'puppy fat' etc. issues with a lot more people than guys do, likely due to the 'oh, you talk about your hips, look at my thighs' and 'oh, you two shut up, at least you have breasts' etc. etc. chain reaction making feel everybody better because nobody's perfect; among guys there doesn't seem to be nearly as much this 'oh, you have this issue, I have that, it's ok', it's more like 'you suck, my xyz is so much better than yours, what's wrong with you', definitely a lot less supportive behaviour.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Marco in BC] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 12:17

Post #53 of 96 Views: 5189

In Reply To:

'oh, you talk about your hips, look at my thighs' and 'oh, you two shut up, at least you have breasts'

LOL, that was a nice imitation :-)

My thanks to the guys who have chimed in on this thread!

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mts] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 12:21

Post #54 of 96 Views: 5187

It's weird. I'm about 5' 4.5" and weigh about 130-135 lbs usually... 2 days before ironman last year I was 128 - and to me I didn't look any different.
People who look at me think I weigh like 110lb.
Some of the weights and heights I've been hearing on this thread make me wonder if I'm 'bulky' or something.
I wear 4s usually and have a 26.5" waist. I can see a little bit of muscle definition in my stomach, no six pack or anything, and I do know I carry most of my weight in my hips/thighs.
Sometimes I struggle with wanting to try to lose weight because maybe I will get faster... however, I think I'm just a bit more muscular. A gal at the pool referred to me once as "the muscle".

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [determination] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 12:24

Post #55 of 96 Views: 5182

In Reply To:

Some of the weights and heights I've been hearing on this thread make me wonder if I'm 'bulky' or something.

Exactly why threads like this are retarded.

______________________________________
I know I'm promiscuous, but in a classy way

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sabrekitty] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 12:35

Post #56 of 96 Views: 5177

What's your affiliation with BikeReg?

To answer Tigerchik's question I'd say somewhat, but not on average. I definitely hang with a skewed bunch (roadies) and they are concerned with their weight but not a whole lot else. Women think of way more angles (how does this or that particular part look) than men, even if men can be as vain. (say about hair or weight).

Last edited by: mayhew: Mar 4, 09 12:35

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [D!] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 12:42

Post #57 of 96 Views: 5167

Amen! In real life, I don't look much different than my other tri buddies!

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mayhew] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 12:44

Post #58 of 96 Views: 5166

The jersey was awarded to me at the Georgia Cup State Time Trial Championship. I placed 2nd in the Women's cat4 race and then immediately raced the women's open TT as well and had the 2nd place time. The results got messed up though, I was allowed to race the Women's Open TT using a bib number from a Cat 3 man that didnt' make it (hey, race director allowed it, I took it) but they still put my time in with the Cat 3 men. I did NOT place nearly so well in that.

Anyway, the race director handed me a medal and the jersey. I like the jersey.

There is no justice, there is only me. -- Death

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sabrekitty] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 12:47

Post #59 of 96 Views: 5162

Very cool. Nice result too.

Just curious, I know some of the guys (and *the* guy) involved in BikeReg.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 13:24

Post #60 of 96 Views: 5148

Aw, thanks doll!

<If you're gonna be dumb, you gotta be tough>
Get Fitter!
Proud member of the Smartasscrew, MONSTER CLUB
Get your FIX today?

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 13:27

Post #61 of 96 Views: 5145

In Reply To:

So here's what I want to know: do guys think about their bodies like girls do? It is such a "big" thing for us - how we look - athletes or non athletes. Do guys think about height, 'puppy' fat (LOL, this is just how I manage to be ok with it, make it something cute and funny), how their legs look, etc?[/quote]
Sure we do.

However, IMO, when women look in the mirror they tend to notice what is wrong with their body. Men tend to focus on what is right/looks good. Not saying that either way is better. We're just wired differently.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Go that way, really fast. If something gets in your way, turn." - Charles De Mar

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [P2SLowry] [ In reply to ]

Mar 4, 09 15:23

Post #62 of 96 Views: 5110

Focusing on the good is definitely better! Dissatisfaction with looks or the # on a scale can ruin any day, ask any girl ;-) far better to focus on the good. Positive affirmations.

If I'm having a bad day I make fish kiss faces in the mirror, my fish kiss face is adorable :-)

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sabrekitty] [ In reply to ]

Mar 5, 09 6:04

Post #63 of 96 Views: 5066

In Reply To:

To quote my doctor this morning "You're tall and have large bone structure, if you're going to keep doing ultrarunning, you need glucosamine."

I only look "normal" among the men, and even then I'm tall. Around you women I look like a freaking giant. If you don't like feeling big on the starting line, look for me. I'll make you look like a dwarf. Seriously. In fact, here's an example. I'm the one that's a full head taller than any of the other girls.

How tall are you? And OMG, if you have large bone structure, I must be ginormous boned--you look pretty thin (I mean, athleticaly thin, not anorexic thin).

But I feel your pain...this is me on my wedding day (And the sad thing is...I was barefoot--they were in their heels):

mmm-mmm-Momo Charms
Handmade beverage charms, jewelry, and miscellanea
http://momocharms.wordpress.com

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mmrocker13] [ In reply to ]

Mar 5, 09 6:20

Post #64 of 96 Views: 5059

You tall chicks are hot!

And I'm not kidding.....

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mmrocker13] [ In reply to ]

Mar 5, 09 6:25

Post #65 of 96 Views: 5058

I'm one inch shorter than my Momma. I measure in at 6 foot. Don't let the angle fool you, I'm broad of shoulder. Bone structure *is* big, I've just been running enough this past season to drop a few more pounds. Truth is, you look built about the same. So, how tall are you?

(btw, you look thin and athletic there too.)

There is no justice, there is only me. -- Death

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sabrekitty] [ In reply to ]

Mar 5, 09 12:41

Post #66 of 96 Views: 4997

I'd give my left nut (if I had one :p) to be 6'. I'm 5'9.5". If I stretch real well, I could probably clear 5'10". :D I don't think of myself as fat at all--but I am definitely large boned. My legs give me a foundation like a tornado alley farmhouse. :p

mmm-mmm-Momo Charms
Handmade beverage charms, jewelry, and miscellanea
http://momocharms.wordpress.com

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sabrekitty] [ In reply to ]

Mar 5, 09 12:45

Post #67 of 96 Views: 4996

You arent alone...
I've got two sisters that are each just a hair over 6'. Granted- I also have a cousin(girl) whos 6-1... and the men in our family are equally huge- My mom is 5-10, dads 6-3, im 6'5, have an uncle the same, a cousin whos 6'4, 6'2, 6'2, 6'1 and one whos 14 and 6'2 already. All of them athletes- of course the older fellas are now well into their 50s, but id be willing to bet that everyone in my generation has BMIs between the middle and upper end of "normal". and half of us still look scrawny no matter what we do.
at least in my opinion, 6' isnt that outlandish for a girl... but then I grew up around big people.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [brikins13] [ In reply to ]

Mar 5, 09 12:51

Post #68 of 96 Views: 4995

When I'm around my Momma's side of the family, I'm not big at all:-D The only adults under 5'11 married in. Most are at least 6'1 (male and female both) and generally much taller. Tallest was Uncle Larry, who measured in at 6'7", and my cousin Marge I think is still the tallest of the women at 6'4" (and yes, the basketball scholarship was hers).

It's good to be reminded sometimes that there are *other* families that think 5'10 and below is "short."

There is no justice, there is only me. -- Death

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sabrekitty] [ In reply to ]

Mar 5, 09 12:58

Post #69 of 96 Views: 4992

ha- excellent!
My dad's side is the "tall" side. While my moms side is taller than average, when the families get together you hear "i thought i was tall, and now i feel like a midget" or some variation dozens of times.
Since my dads side all lives in the same town- he's one of 5 brothers, and theres 12 in my generation- its pretty normal- and everyone knows our family and reputation.
Funny actually, we discovered that my 26yo guy cousin was the third shortest out of all the cousins- and he's just shy of 6'
No chance you have any single women from your family in CT is there?

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [brikins13] [ In reply to ]

Mar 5, 09 13:02

Post #70 of 96 Views: 4991

Sorry, no. The majority are in Iowa, and while I'm single, I'm down in Georgia/Tennessee. Sounds like a great family to me though!

There is no justice, there is only me. -- Death

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sabrekitty] [ In reply to ]

Mar 5, 09 13:11

Post #71 of 96 Views: 4986

Can't say I didnt try.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Marco in BC] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 4:22

Post #72 of 96 Views: 4927

Alright, another question for the guys. I have always wondered, do runner/triathlete guys care about how their legs look?

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 6:31

Post #73 of 96 Views: 4910

I'm skinny. I've always been skinny. at least what I consider skinny- at 6-5+ I tip the scales at just over 200 right now, I'm built solid, but my legs have always been small.
A few years ago- when i got my first bike- coming off of a couple years of college rowing- I noticed that after just a few hundred miles I started developing stretch marks in my quads- which was awesome and kinda gross at the same time. Its nice to get bigger legs, but they're still pretty skinny. As far as definition, its there. clearly im not a couch potato, but you also notice that i dont spend a half hour doing calf raises at the gym.
Do I care about the way my legs look? Sure. but I'm not really going to change anything in order to get them to look "better".
I figure as long as I'm doin my thing, staying in shape... the rest will fall into place, and i'll look how I look. I dont diet, I eat pretty much whatever i can get my hands on, my metabolism is through the roof- so much that I figure i'm pretty much F'd when I do my first half iron this summer, because I dont know if I can maintain enough caloric intake for 6 hrs while staying moving and avoiding cramps etc etc...
I care- but not enough so that it bothers me if i put on weight in the winter, or really even care about what other people think. I like my legs. They may not be as big or muscley as other guys', but i know what my legs can do. and thats cool with me

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 8:40

Post #74 of 96 Views: 4876

Absolutely! Why do you think so many guys look for any excuse to shave them?

Shaved legs look much better than furry ones. Unless you're into that hippy 60-70's jungle hair stuff.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mts] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 9:10

Post #75 of 96 Views: 4869

along with that... being a triathlete, doesnt that automatically make us vain? so we care about everything- even if we (like i recently did) say we dont?

oh. i dont shave my legs. yet. hello hippie legs.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [brikins13] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 11:46

Post #76 of 96 Views: 5726

Please, please stay a hippie jungle man.

signed,
a chick who prefers dudes with leg hair (NO BACK HAIR THOUGH)

mmm-mmm-Momo Charms
Handmade beverage charms, jewelry, and miscellanea
http://momocharms.wordpress.com

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mmrocker13] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 12:19

Post #77 of 96 Views: 5719

interesting...
what about chest? arms? pits?
I'm too lazy to maintain shaving everything. Its alot of surface area. Face and head are one thing, but everything else? too lazy. too much maintenance.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mts] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 12:42

Post #78 of 96 Views: 5712

In Reply To:

Absolutely! Why do you think so many guys look for any excuse to shave them?

so many guys? I thought it was just male triathletes + swimmers + cyclists.

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 12:52

Post #79 of 96 Views: 5708

In Reply To:

so many guys? I thought it was just male triathletes + swimmers + cyclists.[/reply] I meant within this realm. Realistically, only the pros and top amateurs really need to do it. The rest do it for [insert reason here].

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mts] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 17:09

Post #80 of 96 Views: 5661

shaved legs = nice :-)

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [brikins13] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 18:18

Post #81 of 96 Views: 5647

In Reply To:

interesting...
what about chest? arms? pits?
I'm too lazy to maintain shaving everything. Its alot of surface area. Face and head are one thing, but everything else? too lazy. too much maintenance.

If you are a dude, and you're wearing a sweater on your back...get rid of it. if your beard meets your eyebrows, clear a space betwixt them. But leave the legs, and arms, and pits, and... whatnot, alone.

mmm-mmm-Momo Charms
Handmade beverage charms, jewelry, and miscellanea
http://momocharms.wordpress.com

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 6, 09 18:27

Post #82 of 96 Views: 5644

In Reply To:

shaved legs = nice :-)

Agreed!!

clm
Nashville, TN
https://twitter.com/ironclm | http://ironclm.typepad.com

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [trackie clm] [ In reply to ]

Mar 7, 09 5:29

Post #83 of 96 Views: 5605

+2 on the shaved legs... add arms and chest to that and we've got ourselves a winner...

Come crawling faster

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mmrocker13] [ In reply to ]

Mar 7, 09 5:35

Post #84 of 96 Views: 5604

that sounds like a completely reasonable request.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mmrocker13] [ In reply to ]

Mar 7, 09 11:37

Post #85 of 96 Views: 5582

I agree with you there?

There is no justice, there is only me. -- Death

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [mmrocker13] [ In reply to ]

Mar 8, 09 18:53

Post #86 of 96 Views: 5510

You ladies have been making me laugh...I'm short by your standards at right around 5'6", but most likely weigh close to or more than you (high wind advisory, I'm good thanks!)...you think you look like a tornado farmhouse...sheesh....I've got NO torso and thick legs...weigh a 10 and am a solid athlete...my doc can't figure me out. (Though she's pretty sure if I quit eating, my body wouldn't really change much anyway...)

Anyway, I'm still short by your standards, but the boyfriends family are all huge....him @ 6'8", bro @ 6'6" and Dad somewhere right around that..Mom @ 6' and sis around 5'10...I feel ridiculous when I use the bathroom at their house - my feet almost dangle and I practically have to jump to get to the sink! And the guys are all furry, furry creatures. I like my guys to have more hair than me on their body - but I'm all for the grooming. NO wildebeasts allowed!

Maybe I get the best of both worlds? HA....

AW

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 8, 09 20:36

Post #87 of 96 Views: 5498

In Reply To:

Alright, another question for the guys. I have always wondered, do runner/triathlete guys care about how their legs look?

Absolutely. Since I discovered the "aero" benefits of shaving they look that much better ;)

===============
Proud member of the MSF (Maple Syrup Mafia)

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 8, 09 21:21

Post #88 of 96 Views: 5495

Of course men care about how they look. We just have a different sense of reality:

:)

Dan

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [JenHS] [ In reply to ]

Mar 9, 09 13:31

Post #89 of 96 Views: 5407

In Reply To:

Over there, it is all about how to starve yourself into losing those last 3 lbs and getting down to 5% body fat. It really is unhealthy and scary.

"They" also talk about how they put out 400W for an hour. Don't believe a lot of what you read on an Internet forum. A quick examination at any triathlon will demonstrate how most male triathletes aren't close to 5% body fat. I give you permission to do lots of research at your next race.

----------------------------------
"Go yell at an M&M"

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Just Old] [ In reply to ]

Mar 15, 09 9:25

Post #90 of 96 Views: 5234

So I was looking at Outside magazine the other day, which I would say is more geared toward men than women --- noticed how much if it has IMAGE as a focus, ads and articles.

And oh, I immediately looked at the pic of the guy on the front of the bodywork section and thought he'd look so much hotter if his legs were shaved ;-)

maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Just Old] [ In reply to ]

Mar 15, 09 14:20

Post #91 of 96 Views: 5206

In Reply To:

"They" also talk about how they put out 400W for an hour. Don't believe a lot of what you read on an Internet forum. A quick examination at any triathlon will demonstrate how most male triathletes aren't close to 5% body fat. I give you permission to do lots of research at your next race.[/quote]
most male triathletes aren't close to 10% body fat. most people can't imagine what 5% means. it does not mean 'thin', or 'ripped' - for most it would mean 'ematiated' (see pic of rasmussen at the TDF medical check).

at 5'11" and 150, I am a very thin guy. i don't carry a lot of fat, but i would be suprised to find that i was under 10%. it's just not realistic for most.

FWIW, i have access to skinfold, BIA, and underwater weighing equipment, and the know-how to use it. I've tested myself, and many others, quite a lot.

mckenzie

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 16, 09 13:57

Post #92 of 96 Views: 5129

I'm really bored at substitute teaching, so I'm going to have a go at this. Yes, we think about such things. I have certainly noted the new "swim muscles" that are popping out from daily workouts and still bemoan the fact that my chest bone structure is weird and one side is sort of concave. My wife loves to tease me about it.

I figure as I get older, I'm going to look better and better in comparison with my peers, so triathlon is actually very good for my self-image. No one really wants to see me without a shirt, and my arms are not going to make any women swoon, but I'm sure none of those women mind the view when I run or ride past them in a race outfit. :)

And incidentally, TC, I got rid of my scale about the same time you did. As long as you are not pigging out on ice cream and cookies every night, your weight is really kind of irrelevant. I sabotaged a couple of my long races this year by obsessing too much over weight in the week before the event.

Chad

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [tigerchik] [ In reply to ]

Mar 16, 09 14:09

Post #93 of 96 Views: 5125

I'm glad I'm not the only one who has looked at a hot guy and thought he could look even better with shaved legs. :)

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [Sister] [ In reply to ]

Walter P3 Doyle

Mar 16, 09 18:25

Post #94 of 96 Views: 5083

Jeez, you ladies are killing me. ;-)

Thick thighs, thin thighs, big boobies, small boobies, long hair short hair, give me a break. Some of us just love women for who and what they are.

My wife of 30 years has a great ass, not small, but great. She is 5'5-1/2" and has some belly fat at 128 pounds. I love that little extra especially with a crop top. When I met her in college, she had the greatest butt and stomach.

Stop worrying about your weight. You gals are endurance athletes and can kick most guys asses. Celebrate who you are not what you are or how you look.

Personally, I love women with athletic legs, a nice butt (not flat or small), small boobs with a white tight braless t-shirt, and a nice tummy. You can have the anorexic models in the magazines.

So HTFU and celebrate who you are.
You are all lovely!

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [FungShuay] [ In reply to ]

Mar 16, 09 22:27

Post #95 of 96 Views: 5058

I agree completely with what you said. Even though I'm lucky and have a robo-babe of a wife with one mighty fine ass (it has improved with age, truly gravity defying) even with some age wrinkles and some stretch marks from the kids she's finer than ever. She's a square meal with all the food groups and I get all the nourishment I need from her. Now, I won't mind if she packs on some lbs, I think it would actually be sorta fun, and she knows that I wouldn't mind some extra junk back there anyway. Guys have a wide range of likes/dislikes and it all boils down to personality. While I got lucky and hit the jackpot with my main squeeze, there were some before I got married 11 years ago that had it going on in the looks dept, but were nearly brain dead upstairs. Now that wasn't bad for a fling, but certainly not the kinda thing you want wiping the drool off your chin when your on your death bed. Any guy who is worth a damn likes to experience brain stimulation as much or more than he likes other things stimulated. Also, any woman is a model - she can show her stuff in the privacy of her own bedroom for her man and feel like a million bucks. Get toasted on wine and do a fashion show for your hubby, starting with a lot of clothes and getting down to next to nothing, maybe some sexy tasty stuff that he bought you as a gift.

Re: I don't have the body of a model...and? [FungShuay] [ In reply to ]

Mar 17, 09 7:56

Post #96 of 96 Views: 5028

Love it!

Come crawling faster

Our Partners

transition-DOT-area-AT-slowtwitch-DOT-com

Advertise with us

©1999-2024 Slowtwitch, Inc., and Slowtwitch.com
Reproduction of material from any Slowtwitch.com page
without written permission is strictly prohibited.