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Posted by u/runningfrommyproblems·

How do I deal with gaining weight after losing 25 lbs post-divorce?

TL;DR: I lost 25 lbs after my divorce, but now I've gained back more than I lost. How do I deal with this and find balance again?

I never expected to go through a divorce and then lose 25 lbs in just six months. Running became my escape, my therapy, and my way to regain some control in a time that felt so chaotic. I felt lighter, both physically and emotionally, as I crossed finish lines and pushed my limits.

But now, a year later, I find myself having gained back more than what I lost. I thought running would keep me grounded, but the stress and emotional rollercoaster have led to some unhealthy habits creeping in. I'm running more than ever, training for my next marathon, yet the scale isn't budging. It's disheartening to see the hard work not reflected in my body.

Has anyone else experienced this? How did you cope with weight fluctuations after achieving significant progress? I'm looking for some support and maybe some tips on how to manage this rollercoaster of emotions and weight changes. I really want to find my balance again and not let this discourage me from running or training hard. What worked for you?

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u/dad_bod_legacy·

I've had my fair share of ups and downs with weight. After my kids were born, I struggled to find that balance too. Lifting has helped me a lot, especially as a stress reliever. I know running is your thing, but don't be afraid to mix it up a bit! Maybe try adding some strength training for variety. Also, don't forget to enjoy some fun foods now and then. Life's too short to skip pizza nights with the kids. Just remember, it's about progress, not perfection.

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u/balance_seeker·

Weight fluctuations can be a real struggle, especially after such a life change. Have you considered journaling not just about your runs, but also about your eating habits and emotional state? Mindfulness can make a big difference in how we perceive our journeys. Sometimes, tracking how we feel can reveal patterns that aren't visible otherwise. You might also find it helpful to incorporate some strength training into your routine if you haven't already. That can support your running and help with body composition. Finding joy in movement, rather than just focusing on weight, is so important.

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u/keto_kingpin·

Weight gain after weight loss isn't uncommon, but it can be frustrating. You might want to track your macros if you're not doing that already. It's easy to overlook how much you're eating when you're focused on running. I'd also recommend using an app like Cronometer or MyFitnessPal. They can help you see exactly where you might be going overboard. Getting those numbers down can be a real eye-opener.

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u/runningfrommyproblems·

I went through something similar after a rough breakup. I lost a lot of weight initially due to stress, but over time, I started gaining it back when I let my emotions take the lead. Running has always been my sanctuary, yet I realized I was using it to cope, not to truly thrive. Sometimes, we get so caught up in the numbers on the scale that we forget how much we've grown in spirit. It might help to focus less on what the scale says and more on how you feel during your runs. Celebrate those moments. You've achieved so much already.

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u/lifting_granny·

As a retired nurse, I always tell my patients that our bodies can react to stress in ways we don't anticipate. Gaining weight after a significant loss, like a divorce, is common. Consider looking at your eating habits, are you reaching for comfort foods? Also, make sure you're not overtraining. Sometimes when we push ourselves too hard, it can lead to stress and weight gain. A balanced approach is key. Maybe try cross-training or some lighter activities, along with running. It might just give you the reset you need.

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