Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini

skinnyrunner

you look adorable in that picture! i have a pair of white jeans like that… why did i buy them again??

Becky

I’m sorry, but this post really confused me. While I applaud you for approaching this by increasing your exercise rather than starving yourself, it seems like you are sending the wrong message to your readers. Two posts in the last two days have alluded to some unhappiness with your body (yesterday, you mentioned you wanted to “tone” up, and today, you mention not fitting into the blue dress). It seems to me like the following happened: you moved to California, your lifestyle changed, and consequently your body changed. Could you not interpret this as evidence that maybe your body’s natural size/shape is somewhat different now than it was a year ago? It’s clear from recent photos that you are still a healthy, normal, beautiful size. You are doing yoga, running, and eating what look to be mostly balanced meals. What if your body has just changed? Our bodies DO change over time, and to try to cram them back into size 2 clothing by doing loads of intense exercise seems contradictory to the overall message that you try to project. I know people will read this and interpret that I’m “attacking” you. I’m honestly NOT trying to attack you at all, I’m just trying to get some clarification on this.

Julie

Well, in a fit of frustration, I donated everything that was too small. But I’d be willing to update my wardrobe if my current clothes get too big. : ) I *love* 30DS. I should start it up again too.

courtney

You go girl!!!!!

Lara

Fitting into favorite old clothes is definitely great motivation and a better barometer than the scale I think.
I think you will have better results if you focus on food intake. Cutting back on the frequent indulgences and wine (not cutting out, just back) That is so much more important for losing weight than ramping up exercise (which you already do a lot of) especially with the bike race training.

Suzanne de Cornelia

I’ve kept my ‘ideal’ size white J Crew jeans for years and try these on every Friday AM. If snug, increase fruits/vegs/lean protein/salads/exercise and cut back portion size and anything fattening. Here is a doctor’s guide to portion size: http://www.webmd.com/diet/healthtool-portion-size-plate
French women remain slim for life, eat better and healthier, which is wise on multiple levels, by holding the mindset from childhood of slowing savoring smaller portions. Americans are constantly on diets because the majority hold core thoughts about food are antithetical to staying slim, i.e. the French never use the word ‘full’ which would be the complete opposite of their intention, and they don’t eat fast. Those two American habits of stuffing oneself: eating big portions fast have produced an epidemic of obesity–the #1 health crisis in US that is the causal factor in many diseases, and a struggle with weight for life.

Mark Morford penned this hilarious piece about how Americans are duped into the ‘Supersized’ mentality:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mark-morford/the-kfc-double-down-one-s_b_531749.html

D

I don’t see anything wrong AT ALL with wanting to fit into clothes. I think losing “vanity pounds” is absolutely fine as long as the individual has a healthy attitude, which I think you do. You can be confident and healthy and still want to wear some skinny jeans! But I think I have the same reaction as another commenter. I remember the post you wrote about gaining ten pounds in California, and I think the issue is that you said how that weight didn’t matter at all to you and you weren’t trying to lose it. I don’t think you SHOULDN’T try if that’s what you want, but I think the mixed message is that you said you were totally fine with the weight, and now you’re saying you’re not. I don’t think people have to be content with a weight they don’t like (even if it’s perfectly healthy) but I think it’s confusing to say you are truly okay with extra weight when it’s not the case.

Sarah

Jenna,
Would you like me to send you a set of 5 lb weights? I have an extra pair that I bought from Amazon mistakingly. They’ve never been out of their box, and they’re just hanging out in my room. Let me know ; )
Sarah

Yasmin

What part of California do you live in? I’m planning on relocating there in June and July but wanted to get your opinion on pros and cons of the state and which areas you think are good. Thanks!

Lauren

You’ll be back in that gorgeous dress in no time!!! 🙂 Good luck with the shreds.

maura

This happened to me too recently and my birthday is in June too! I’m on board here with the Old Clothes Challenge 🙂

Diana

I’ll join too!!! I just had a little fashion show too and found out my jeans are getting tight!!! Sheez. I guess those ice cream and bakery calories do add up. What’s worst i’m studying to become a register dietitian and I am not following what I preach. All about healthy eating. It’s time to go back to basics!!!! Yoga and running!!!

Diana

I’ll join too!!! I just had a little fashion show too and found out my jeans are getting tight!!! Sheez. I guess those ice cream and bakery calories do add up. What’s worst i’m studying to become a register dietitian and I am not following what I preach. All about healthy eating. It’s time to go back to basics!!!! Yoga and running!!! Those “vanity lbs” will be GONE!!!

Michelle

I wish I actually enjoyed the 30 Day Shred. It sure is effective, but since I don’t find it “fun”, I only do it when I start to forget how much I don’t like it!

Maybe I’ll pick it up later this week after my sunburns subside enough for me to comfortable lift my arms?

I agree with you about wanting to fit into a beloved dress. I mean, really, why not? It’s your favorite dress! If you’re not doing anything unhealthy to get into it (and upping the ante on toning exercises a little is hardly unhealthy), where’s the problem?

kalli@fitandfortysomething

i have beem working with a trainer because my arms need work-keep it up 🙂

Steph

What’s in the back of my closet that no longer fits? All of my clothes! Haha I am 38 weeks pregnant, so I can’t wait to start getting my body back.
By the way, you look great just the way you are! But I can understand how frustrating it is to own cute clothes you can’t fit in to.

Michelle

I’m right there with ya. I’ve gained 15 pounds since Thanksgiving and I could say oh, my body has changed when in fact my body hasn’t changed, my eating habits changed. I need to watch what I eat, exercise and then the 15 will be gone. Thank you for the motivation.

Heather

I am definately in! I have a pair of Lucky jeans that I used to live in that I cant get over my hips now! My birthday is in May and I plan on getting in to them by then!!

claire

I’m totally in! I have some jeans that I bought after my wedding. Right now they fit, except that they don’t… HERE WE GO!! June 1 is my deadline!

ida

i’m sure the century training will have you back in that dress- no problem. and you’ll have some bangin’ hamstrings to boot!

Sarah-Mae @ Eat, Run, Knit

Great dress motivation!
I love Stevia, although my morning coffee in particular is still best with a tbsp of Sucanat or Turbinado. Mmm… sugar cane!

Karen

Take it from one who was overweight her whole childhood, then lost the weight at 18 and have kept it off for many years, even through two pregnancies…..I eat healthier today then I did as a child and work out more as well, just because you watch your weight doesn’t mean you’re not advocating a healthy lifestyle, quite the contrary…..I have maintained my weight simply from watching the scale and trying on those skinny jeans, I applaud Jenna for doing what’s she’s doing, too many times people get comfortable with where they’re at and before they know it they’re struggling with those extra lbs, too easy to buy a new dress in the next size…….

Laura

You seem to have such a great attitude to life Jenna, I hope none of the slightly negative comments you’ve had above have upset you. Life changes, seasons change, and people change, as do their mentalities. I’m sorry but I really don’t see when people thought you had to take up the mantle as a role model, and with it such a great weight of responsibility and critique. I don’t know you at all, but after following your life, as it is from your writings, I am constantly amazed by your strength, grace, humility and insight. So in that respect, in what really matters, you are an inspiring role model- with a very wise head on your shoulders! You taking care of both your mental and physical health is your business 😉 Not at all sure what the point of my comment is, but there you are. Blame my migraine 😉 I hope you are having a lovely day!

Andrea

Jenna:
Most of us can relate to how you’re feeling right now. It is refreshing FOR ME at least to read your posts like this. I feel like what you’re saying about fitting into that dress is totally a normal conversation I would have with one of my friends. I think your “challenge” is perfectly justified. Somebody will always be here to judge. I am sure you’ve learned that.

Diana @ frontyardfoodie

I wish! I’m only halfway through my pregnancy but maybe once I’ve had the baby I can focus on getting into pre-baby clothes.

Amanda Bowen

I’m with you!

I liked three things about your post today: 1) getting to bed and getting up earlier, 2) 30-Day Shred and 3) fitting into old clothes again!

Let’s do them all!
Old clothes to fit into: Designer jeans I have hanging in my closet!

Lauren @ louisianagrown

I truly hate gaining weight, not because of the number on the scale, but because of the fact that all of the clothes I’ve spent money on no longer fit. Good luck getting back in that super cute dress!

Louise

Thank you for this! My birthday is also in June and my favorite pair of James jeans are wadded up in a corner of my closet where I threw them in a fit of rage. I need to spend more time in the gym and less time on the couch drinking wine while planning dinners out with my husband.

Jessica

Count me in! I have been working out for a while but the nutrition component is missing….and I think having a group helps. good luck to everyone!

Sarah (Oc2Seattle)

Have been curious about the Shred – would love to hear more as you progress!

Carolyn

I with you on the Shred! I hate strength training and love the mental benefits of cardio- but I need to do both. I ordered a pair of half price jeans and am feeling like they won’t fit when they arrive…

amanda

OMG I love that blue dress. Super cute! Good luck to you on your weight loss journey. I have heard great things about Shred

Carrie (Love Healthy Living)

When I find something in my closet that is too small, I throw it in the Goodwill bag. Alas, I don’t have too many clothes. Ha ha! I do think there is value in being careful when clothes get tight and getting back to your normal place. I may or may not join you in this endeavor. 🙂

Amy

Yep, that is my plan, starting Monday, AFTER I run the Boston marathon. Between winter, marathon training, and making career/life decisions over the last couple months, I have put on some lbs!! I have way too many cute clothes!

Tina

I have so many events coming up in the next few months! Among them, my class reunion, so I’m definitely in!

Salah@myhealthiestlifestyle

I’m definitely joining in!! Sounds like fuN! I always enjoy a challenge 🙂

Kaitlyn

Becky #39 Please stop analyzing . It’s irritating ! Losing a few pounds, from April-June to fit better into dress is quite healthy and attainable !

Michelle

I Am 100% with you on this challenge. I HATE when my favorite old clothes no longer fit!! annoying as heck.

MollyM

Girl! I’m am SO joining you on the Old Clothes Challenge!

Katie

Girl I am right there with you on this challenge. Summer is CREEPING up and I could use a little less peanut butter and a little more dumbbell action!

jenna

love your dress-super cute 🙂
jenna

Rachel

I would wholeheartedley like to agree with #115 Ashley. There’s a pair of jeans that I want to fit back into, healthily, growing runners thighs and all. And you know what? That’s entirely ok, and it’s great to know that many others, all shapes and sizes are motivated to be in a state that they feel best in.

Side note, also randomly retreated back to Jillian’s DVD after almost a year and was quickly reminded of how great a sweat I could work up in 20 minutes. The 2 days after, I was also reminded of how it can be pretty tough on your joints (knees mainly)…is anyone else in the same boat?

Sana

I love being able to fit into clothes again! It’s even better than buying them in the first place :)!

Ana

eatmorelove: i couldn’t agree more!

Morgan

For those who are marathon training, when you do train, you have a higher blood volume, thus making it feel as if your thighs are bigger. Once you resume a normal running schedule, your blood volume will go back to normal, as long as you return to your pre-marathon training eating habits.

Becky Runner

When you wrote your previous post on gaining weight in Cali, I think I remember you saying something about your clothes fitting, but filling them out differently. I loved that post, and I think you have a really healthy attitude towards these things. I also really understand a desire to turn up the healthy lifestyle intensity a little bit in order to feel better and more comfortable in your clothes…personally I also find that in the warmer months I’m just generally more motivated to exercise more and eat healthier (helloo more daylight hours!!) and that in the colder and darker months I typically feel a little less toned and a lot less motivated to get outside and do things. On the other hand, this could also be inspiration to get a cute new summer dress in the meantime! My real suggestion though is that this seems like the PERFECT time to organize a clothing swap with all the lovely ladies at the yoga studio (and non-yoga lovely ladies – and guys for that matter, but in my experience clothing swaps have always been girls-only) because they are a freeeee way to pass off the clothes that you don’t like/don’t wear/have worn so many times you can’t stand the thought of them anymore/bought impulsively and would actually look so much better on someone else….and are a really great excuse for a girls’ night!

Richelle

Hey Jenna, I’ve been reading your blog for a while but have never commented! But reading some of these “confused” comments have made me… want to comment! I think it’s refreshing to see that when you gained your 10 “California pounds”, you were okay with it! But now I totally understand the feeling of wanting to get back to your “normal size”. I have gained up to 10lbs before and knew that it wasn’t the end of life, but I just feel more confident at my regular weight. This IS a healthy/food blog… and I find it comforting that even those of us that DO tend to lead healthy lives sometimes go through these challenges of fitting back into those clothes that are super fun to wear.

Sorry this was kind of long – but just wanted to get out there to those “confused” commenters who seem disturbed that *GASP* sometimes even us, healthy lifestyle leaders and eaters, feel the need to revamp our eating/exercise routines to feel our best!

P.S. I think your Macbook “headshots” are always super cute and adds that much more personality to a blog! Take care 🙂

SallyH @ accountablelife.wordpress.com

Jenna! That’s an awesome goal — to feel better in your clothes. Nothing wrong with that. I pulled out my favorite pants from last summer and they are tight. Too tight to comfortably wear them to work. I’d love to try the 30 shred. Do you have the DVD? Which one? I’ve checked out a couple on YouTube, but it seemed kind of weird doing it that way. I’m not sure where to start.

Blaine

Oh, the wisdom of Mama Pea. I’m with her!

It may be hard to believe this, but my innocent attempt to fit back into a cute pair of summer shorts led to a three-year battle with bulimia/anorexia. Sounds extreme, I know everyone is totally different but I am extra careful with untruths like “I will feel better if I am skinnier and can fit into these tiny clothes”… it just hits pretty freakin’ close to home.
However, I do appreciate the sense of accomplishment and “feel-goodness” that comes from being active and taking care of yourself – if you don’t take it too seriously, then good for you 🙂
Much love! (and absolutely no hatin’)

Natalie

Jenna – You simply ROCK! Enough said.

Marcia

You know…people do change as they get older, back and forth. Where you are in your life changes.

I lost 57 lbs in 2002. I’m 5’2.5″ and got down to 125, very skinny for me – I have a lot of muscle, particularly on my lower half. I was very happy there, but a few friends felt that I was “too skinny”. I figured they’d get over bit, but really, at 123, I couldn’t sleep at night (Hipbones digging into the bed).

Then the stress of trying to get pregnant and I gained 15-20 lbs. I found myself gaining because “I don’t want to diet if I’m trying to get pregnant”, but had to admit to myself that it may never happen. I did get pregnant. Had a baby. Had almost 2 years of carrying around an extra 15-20 lbs. I gave away all my size 8’s, figuring “this is where I am”.

But ya know, I lost those 20 lbs again. But it got to be too hard to maintain 125. And my friends with the “too skinny”, but what I discovered is that as I got into my late 30’s…yeah, at 125, my face is…gaunt. And I look a lot older. As one of my (60 year old) friends told me “at some point, you need to choose between your face and your a$$”.

So my weight fluctuates. Would I love to be 125-127 again? Sure thing. But 132 is reasonably easy to maintain and even 135 – while higher than I’d like – isn’t too bad either. I can still run 10+ miles. I can still do yoga, lift weights, and fit into at least half my clothing. With a full time job, a husband, and a 4-year old, sometimes you have to cut yourself some 10-pounds of slack.

Jenna broke up with a boyfriend, uprooted herself, and moved to California. That’s a perfect opportunity to cut herself some slack (heck, I gained 37 lbs when I moved to Cali). But there’s nothing wrong with wanting to get back to where she once was…as long as she’s at a healthy weight, who cares??

Jennie {in Wonderland}

I remember you bought that dress from Anthro because you knew your brother would have loved it, right? It’s gorgeous and I totally get wanting to slip right back into it again.

I’m in the process of losing weight right now, so most of my clothes are actually a bit too big… which is fun! I’ve had a pair of capris that I bought last summer [knowing they would be too small, haha] in my closet for months and I finally fit into them the other day! Best.feeling. I’m just trying to get healthier, not ‘skinnier’, but as it goes, the weight comes off as the vegetable intake goes up. 😉

I love the Shred but I do so much strength training at the gym that I don’t feel I could fit it in. The first time I did it, I couldn’t move my arms above my head for days. Such is the power of Jillian!!

Sarah

I’m definitely in on that challenge! I’ve got a closet full of stuff I can’t seem to fit into since that awesome honeymoon weight settled itself on my body! My bday is also in June, so let’s do it!!!

Helen

I love that dress! I know you will do this challenge in the most healthy way you can. You don’t eat unhealthily at all and so so much exercise. In fact you lead such a balanced life I’m sure you’ll be back in that dress in no time.

Mastering Public Health

Go, Marcia! Inspiring story and tell-it-like-it-is experience right there.

Andrea

Thank you so much for sharing this, Jenna! Obviously, many of us have some clothes we would love to get back into, and this is a great motivation to do so when we’re all doing it together! I realize that it may be a bit difficult to share something like this on your blog, because of what soooomme people may think, but anyone who follows your blog can clearly see that you lead a very healthy and balanced life!

Sandy

I am keeping this post in my inbox so that I see it and remember my goal of getting into a few dresses before my son’s wedding in June.