# 52 Days of Fitness Challenge: Day 26 - A Renewed Fitness Commitment
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Chapter 1: Embracing the Midpoint
Hello, everyone, and happy Friday!
Today marks the 26th day of my 52 Days to Fitness Challenge. Being halfway through a journey often signifies a crucial turning point for me. Historically, once I reach the midpoint, I tend to follow through to completion. So, I have confidence that I will succeed this time as well.
However, those following my journey will notice that I haven’t quite hit the halfway mark in my weight loss goal of shedding 10 pounds by mid-August. Instead, I find myself stuck in a cycle of losing and regaining the same 2.6 pounds repeatedly. (Funny how 26 and 2.6 are so closely tied!)
I take full responsibility for this fluctuation, as my commitment has wavered.
What’s holding me back from prioritizing my weight loss?
In short, my love for food is a major factor. The deeper answer is likely rooted in complex psychological reasons, which I've explored in more detail here:
I Will Never Lose Weight Until I Can Answer This Question
But can I really tackle that question?
Today brings a bit of good news regarding my weight loss journey, along with some even more encouraging updates about my emotional and psychological growth. Let’s dive in.
Today's Weigh-In: Progress, However Slight
When I embarked on this challenge on June 26th, I weighed ABCD.E pounds. As of today, July 21st, my weight is now ABCD.E pounds minus 2.4 pounds. A small victory, albeit still the same weight as last week. At least I haven’t gained any weight, which I consider a win.
Additionally, after reading articles highlighting the benefits of resistance training for weight loss, I’ve shifted my focus from cardio to incorporating weights into my regular workouts. Although I’m burning fewer calories now, after just two sessions with dumbbells (10 pounds, 6 sets of 8 reps each for bicep curls and tricep presses), I feel stronger and more toned.
Is it possible that I’m actually stronger? After only two workouts, I find it hard to believe. But the mind is indeed powerful. Feeling good after exercising motivates me to continue this cycle of fitness.
Plus, I’ve told my fit son that I’ll challenge him to an arm-wrestling match at the end of summer, and I’m determined to win!
Chapter 2: Celebrating Small Victories
But the real victory? I’m eating less.
Not drastically less, but I’m approaching my meals with more mindfulness. For instance, last night, while I was working late on an article, I considered indulging in a plate of cheese and crackers—maybe even some Oreos—to make the task more enjoyable. It would have been delightful, but I realized I wasn't actually hungry; I had already enjoyed a healthy dinner of eggs, vegetables, and plenty of fruit.
What I felt was more likely boredom, fatigue, or frustration with the writing process. Recognizing this, I resisted the urge. (Is resistance combined with resistance training the secret sauce? I think it might be).
This isn’t based on scientific evidence; it was simply a moment of willpower, spurred by the thought of stepping on the scale in the morning and reporting back to all of you.
I understand that relying solely on willpower isn't sustainable in the long run. I’ll need to find healthier, more organic ways to manage future cravings for snacks like cheese and crackers.
But for now, this is a win—and it gives me hope for more victories down the line.
Thank you all for reading! Wishing you a fantastic weekend. Don’t forget to check back on Tuesday for my next update.
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