MWLISS: Is running ruining my weight loss?

What a silly thing to ask. If you are a runner, aren't you supposed to be thin?

I wish that was true for me. I lost weight after my youngest was born. I discovered marathon running shortly after I recovered from my c-section. I was in love and determined to remain in the sport. 

I had several seasons of stress. Slowly, the weight creeped up: 10, 20, 32 pounds extra. They affected my runs. I got slower and running was difficult. 

I decided to take control of my health. I took a few years and now I eliminated most of the weight I gained. I'm on my way to having a normal BMI and I'm so glad about it. 

The short answer to the original question is yes and no. A professional once told me that eating for weight loss and eating for long distance running are two different things. I agree. I also know that athletes everywhere try to get lean so they can race more efficiently. It can be done. 

The major way that running ruined my weight loss can be described in three words: sense of entitlement. I'd say things like: "I just ran 18 miles, I can eat whatever I want." 

I spoke to my doctor, who told me I was overestimating the extra amount of calories my body needs for the days I run. She told me exactly what to do. My goal is to follow her advice this running season. 

I also believed the popular saying "we run to eat." Yesterday, I realized that the best way is to live out the words "we eat to run." When I ran to eat, I incrementally gained 32 pounds. I am now eating to run and it is benefiting my health, my runs and my entire life.

When I eat to run, I eat real foods that are good for my body and my brain. When I eat to run, I make choices that will make my runs more effective. Sure I will allow myself to live in the real world. You better know there's a homemade chocolate cake with my name on it as an occasional treat. I believe in learning from my mistakes. I have learned that self-control and balance is what I want to practice.

I'm here to tell you that I won't let running ruin my weight loss. Running is a powerful tool to lead me to a healthier life. As I eat to run and I correctly fuel those runs, I will reach my goal.

Stats:
WW start weight: 175 lbs
Current: 151 lbs
First Goal: 150 lbs
Second Goal: 146 lbs
Third Goal: 136 lbs

Previously in this Series:
• First week of WW
• WW Speak
• Premeditated Portion Control 
• Weights and Measures
• Time
• Carbs & WW
• Proof of Weight Loss
• Why I started

• Preparation

• Fear
• Daily Choices