The 2024 NFL Pro Bowl games were an electrifying showcase of talent, captivating fans with jaw-dropping catches, powerful strength, and remarkable performances. As the players exhibited their exceptional skills and represented their teams with pride, football enthusiasts worldwide were treated to moments of intense competition and sheer entertainment. It was an unforgettable event that left us eagerly anticipating the next Pro Bowl games.
However, amidst the excitement, one particular aspect caught my attention—not the players themselves, but the commentary from the announcers. They often referred to the linebackers as the “big boys,” acknowledging their immense responsibility in the game. As I discussed these players with a friend, it struck me that NFL linebackers typically weigh between 240 and 300 pounds. At my heaviest, I tipped the scales at 310 pounds. It was a sobering realization that I outweighed a professional football linebacker. Standing at just 5’4″, with linebackers towering at 6’4″, the disparity in size was glaring.
Reflecting on this moment led me to contemplate my journey towards healthier living as a woman. While I’ve made progress and am in a better space now, achieving this has required immense effort. However, I find myself grappling with the reality that I’m not as small as I once was. Having reached 162 pounds previously, I now find myself at 209 pounds, which is playing havoc with my mindset. My goal is to reach around 180 pounds—not because it’s a magical number of happiness, but because it’s a weight where I can function comfortably until I undergo skin removal surgery without it consuming my thoughts.
To achieve this, I’ve resolved to make significant changes. I aim to eliminate protein shakes, dairy, potatoes, and rice from my diet, focusing instead on strict meal planning. My protein intake will come from sources like meat and eggs, while I’ll rely on vegetables such as green beans for carbs and hydrate myself with ample water.
It’s time to stop procrastinating and commit fully to reclaiming my health and well-being. This blog serves as a testament to my journey and a declaration of my determination to embrace a lifestyle that nourishes both my body and mind.
The “Big Boys” of the NFL
In the dynamic world of football, the term “big boys” carries significant weight, both literally and metaphorically. These are the linemen who stand as pillars of strength, defending their team’s honor with unwavering determination. Standing at an imposing 6’4″ and weighing between 240 to 300 pounds, they command attention and respect on the field. These athletes epitomize the very essence of defensive prowess, embodying the relentless spirit that defines the sport.
During the broadcasts of the Pro Bowl, the announcers painted vivid portraits of these linemen, portraying them as larger-than-life figures who towered over their adversaries. Every movement was accompanied by an aura of power and dominance, leading many, including myself, to envision them as colossal titans, far exceeding the 400-pound mark. However, to my surprise, the reality was quite different—these “big guys” weighed in at a more modest 270 pounds, challenging my preconceived notions.
Among the standout figures in the Pro Bowl lineup, Jason Kelce commanded attention for various reasons. As he effortlessly rode the sled, discussions about his size naturally arose. It struck me that despite his impressive stature of 6’4″ and 295 pounds, I, at 5’4″ and 310 pounds, surpassed his weight despite a significant height difference. This realization prompted a moment of introspection, causing me to realize my previous health and wonder whether such comparisons could have sparked my journey to change sooner.
Lessons Learned from NFL Linebackers
Observing NFL linebackers, I’ve gleaned invaluable lessons in discipline and commitment to physical fitness. These athletes exemplify unwavering dedication and athleticism, showcasing that strength and athleticism come in various forms. While my physique may not resemble that of Miley Cyrus or Margot Robbie, I’ve come to understand that femininity and strength are not mutually exclusive. Embracing my inner strength allows me to redefine conventional notions of femininity and embrace my unique health journey.
My journey towards better health underscores the paramount importance of nutrition and a structured training regimen. Reflecting on my past achievements, I recognize the need to reclaim the discipline that propelled me to shed 150 pounds. My nutrition regimen holds the key to unlocking my full potential, demanding a return to the meticulous planning and execution that characterized my earlier successes. Additionally, incorporating more cardiovascular exercises into my routine is essential. While CrossFit forms the cornerstone of my fitness routine, supplementing it with 20 additional miles on the treadmill will further enhance my endurance and overall fitness levels.
Embarking on a journey of self-improvement often entails shedding old habits and forging new connections. It’s a transformation that may lead to the loss of certain friendships but ultimately opens doors to a community that aligns with our evolving values. Transitioning away from individuals whose lifestyles don’t resonate with our health-focused mindset can be challenging, yet it paves the way for authentic connections with like-minded individuals who champion our journey.
The health journey is marked by peaks and valleys, triumphs and setbacks. While reaching 162 pounds filled me with joy, regaining some of that weight to reach 209 pounds triggered a sense of disappointment. However, these setbacks serve as opportunities for growth and resilience. The woman I’ve become possesses the knowledge and determination to navigate these challenges, using setbacks as stepping stones toward renewed success.
Discovering activities that bring joy and fulfillment is pivotal in maintaining a sustainable approach to fitness. For me, CrossFit embodies this ethos—it offers a dynamic and varied workout regimen that keeps me engaged and motivated. Its structured programming simplifies the process, allowing me to focus solely on execution. Likewise, nourishing my body with wholesome, unprocessed foods is integral to my well-being. Embracing simplicity in food choices, steering clear of packaged and processed items, and sticking to the perimeter of the grocery store help me maintain a nutritious diet that fuels my active lifestyle.
In embracing these principles, I find balance and enjoyment in my journey towards holistic health. It’s a journey marked by self-discovery, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to nurturing both body and mind.
Wrap It Up
I stand before you as a woman—a woman on a quest for health, femininity, and self-reinvention. Once burdened by excess weight, I now embrace the opportunity to shape my identity and destiny through dedicated effort and unwavering determination.
To my fellow women embarking on similar journeys, I offer this: the path to health may be arduous, but the rewards are immeasurable. Seek out your tribe, your community of support, and cherish them fiercely. Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and emerge stronger and more empowered than ever before.
It’s remarkable how a single comment can ignite a spark of introspection, prompting days of contemplation and self-discovery. The realization that I surpassed the size of an NFL linebacker catalyzed my renewed commitment to reclaiming my health and vitality.
As I navigate the tumultuous currents of self-reflection, I embrace the ebb and flow of uncertainty. For in the fluidity of identity lies the potential for growth and transformation. My resolve to prioritize health and well-being remains unwavering, fueled by sacrifice and dedication. I pose a question to you, dear reader: Are you prepared to sacrifice the comforts of the present for the promise of a healthier, more vibrant future?
In the dance between past, present, and future, I find solace in the pursuit of health—a journey marked by resilience, self-discovery, and the unwavering belief that, as women, we possess the power to shape our destinies and redefine our realities.
