become a contributor
HEALTH
Your Bod
The number 100 on a scale scares me
{Related}I have always been very tall and fit. I weigh 105 pounds and I’m 5'3”. The number 100 on a weight scale scares me INCREDIBLY. Whenever it hits that number, I try my best to lose weight, and worry about getting fat.
I played soccer, and did dance classes, but stopped because we couldn’t afford it. The only activity I’m in is cheerleading once a week for two hours. Is that enough to stay fit?
Hey girl, first thing’s first, when it comes staying at a healthy weight, there are two key ingredients: a healthy diet and exercise. It sounds like you’re a little too hooked on numbers, a fixation that if too extreme can lead to some pretty bad habits for your bod: over-exercising and eating disorders, for example.
Keep in mind that at you age, there is no exact correct weight—only an appropriate range, since you’re still growing. My suggestion to you is to step back and realize that a) you’re healthy and not going to get fat and b) your bod is growing, and it’s so important now more than ever that you take care of it. That means feeding it and exercising in moderation. Remember, being too skinny is a bad thing, too.
The Numbers Game
When it comes to determining the right weight to be at, it’s important to look beyond the number on the scale: Consult your doctor and look at your BMI (body mass index) for your weight and height. To calculate your BMI, just check out this nifty guide.
What it means? If you’re barely in the normal range for weight, you don’t have to worry at all about getting fat. Being borderline, however, means taking care of yourself so that you don’t lose any more pounds.
Growing Up
Your bod is going through some major changes right now. You’re growing taller. Your bod is changing from that of a kid’s to that of an adult’s. As you grow taller, the number on the scale may be a tad bit higher, but it’s not because you’re getting “fat;” it’s not bad weight.
The taller you are, the more weight you need to support yourself at that height. Understand that passing 100 on the scale doesn’t mean you’re big, it means you’re becoming an adult. So eat healthy and exercise regularly. Treat your body well because it needs nutrients—fuel—more than ever as it works through puberty.
Exercise in Moderation
Exercise is a powerful thing. Not only can it help keep your bod in its best shape, but it also acts as stress reliever. Aim to exercise in moderation: cheerleading is a great start. Know too that you don’t have to be in a sport to work out.
Try running around your neighborhood. For example: All it takes is a pair of sneakers! Once you’ve found a routine you like, don’t overdo it. I run every other day. It gives my legs a break and bod a chance to rest on the days in between. My bod’s in great shape because I don’t overexert it. Remember, too much of a good thing can become bad.
That said, in all, sweetie, you’re just fine the way you are. Don’t let the numbers get the best of you. Focus on taking care of yourself, and you’ll be the picture of health.
We want to hear from you! Send us your weirdest body questions here (seriously, we'll answer anything!) and it just might get featured.
POSTED IN weight
POLL
This is NOT a drill: Tortured Poets Department is out! The first track you fell in love with was...
LOVE THIS
All your period probs, solved 💕
So maybe your monthly flow isn’t, um, go with the flow. Never fear! Take our quiz to pair up with your perfect Pamprin and end the menstrual madness.
FREE STUFF
Win! Voloom volumizing iron
One gorgeous gal will win a volumizing iron from Voloom (worth $140)! From silky straight strands to luscious curls, this tool takes your tresses to the next level—literally. The unique checkerboard plates boost hair at the root, so you can get that better-than-a-blowout bounce. Enter to win here!
