No One Knows Your Body Better Than You

And if they act like they do, show them who’s boss

The cycling class I took yesterday morning was kind of brutal — and not just because of the intense workout.

The upper body work didn’t stop. My resistance was higher than I usually push it. With the choreography flowing from one song to the next, I noticed there weren’t any breaks. So at one point, panting during the transition between songs, I sat in the saddle and picked up my Swell while those around me bumped along to the beat of the music.

Suddenly, I found the instructor staring at me (I was hard to miss front row and center). “This is not the time to sit”, she said sternly. “If you’re feeling the need to sit, ask yourself what you’re giving in to”.

As a perfectionist who’s prone to experiencing shame easily, my first response was: “I failed. I’m weak. I should be able to keep up with everyone without stopping”.

My second response was “Screw that!”

My body was telling me it was time for water. My legs were telling me it was time for a break. Therefore, it was time for a water break. No further rationale needed.

I don’t think the instructor was trying to make me feel bad. She probably thought she was inspiring, motivating or pushing me past my perceived limitations. I know this because I’ve experienced other instructors do it more… er… effectively.

The “don’t stop” mentality supports the false, unrealistic idea that strength can only be achieved in the absence of self-care.

Hydrating is not weakness. Walking for part of your run is not lazy. Laying on the mat to catch your breath in between sets does not make you a wuss.

You are the only one who knows what your body needs. It is a well-attuned machine that is so smart it usually can regulate itself. When it can’t, it sends us cues telling us something needs attention. Cues like intensified attraction to our partner, hunger pains, or tight muscles.

My instructor may have thought I was giving in, but in reality I was giving to myself.

So stay seated and drink your water if you’re tired and thirsty. Eat that piece of cake if you’re craving dessert. Take a break from your sprints to stretch your achilles if it aches. Self-love helps us go the distance way more effectively than shame does.

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