​I have had more than a checkered past regarding weight, exercise, and body image. So a couple of years ago, when my physical therapist recommended that I start a weight lifting regimen, I was more than apprehensive. However, I've continued this program for over a year, even increasing the number of days I lift per week. Since starting this routine, I have seen immense benefits, including increased strength, stability, and posture. 

Diet culture has become so prevalent in the exercise space that I only equated exercise with weight loss for many years. I couldn't even see the other benefits because of my weight struggles and body image history. Once I could separate these intertwined concepts, I could approach exercise with more clarity, understanding, and compassion.