Mother critical about passion for fitness

[funkify]

I'm a 27 year-old only child who lives in the family home (read: enmeshed parental relationships). A few years ago, I became passionate about fitness and then bodybuilding, much to my parents dismay (yes they are a big part of my life & I love them). They thought I was becoming 'obsessed with looking like a musclewoman'. Now that I look back, I did put fitness as first priority above other things at some times. However, I'm still proud of what I achieved ie. 'covergirl' figure not musclewoman, respect and admiration by others in the industry. It was very difficult to overcome mum's taunts even though I knew I was doing something good for my body, nevertheless I persevered through the daily fights.

 

As my commitment was becoming my encompassing, my passion began to dwindle. I enjoyed taking one year off, just being 'normal' (ie. eating whatever and getting my social life back). Mum was so happy that I "finally came to my senses". However, as expected I gained some weight and it has been on my mind ever since. So about one month ago, I got back into doing cardio 5X week as well as eating clean (I used to do 5X cardio and 4X weights weekly back in the day). I recently purchased another cardio machine and have been interested in taking up rock climbing to mix things up a bit. Now the fights have started again and mum thinks I'm getting obsessive. Even though I know I'm not being 'obsessive', it gets me really down that che criticises my passion instead of supporting it. It's not easy to hop on the treadmill most days when I'm just getting back into it, but I'm already feeling fitter and more confident.

 

Does anyone have any insight or tips for coping with this? Mum's just so in my face and won't give up.

[VeveCakes]

Could she possibly be jealous?

 

Can you talk to her, and express your feelings and need for support?

[NamNam]

You said so in the past that you had probably prioritised your passion for fitness over family. Are you sure that is not re-occurring again?

 

Your 'obsession' with fitness, how obsessive are you? Are you constantly boring her and your family with fitness talk all the time and etc.? Is that just all you talk about and have no other interests in your life? Leading a balanced life is healthy too.

 

Are you taking steroids or any other compunds (i.e. drugs)??

 

I ask you these questions they may help you in understanding why your mum is so against your passion. If you are honest with yourself and you answer these questions 'correctly' as in honestly, then maybe it's your mum who has a problem. It could be lack of attention, insecurity, whatever.

 

I myself train a lot as well (cycling and thai boxing six days/week) and it is time consuming. It does take a lot of time away from the family so I always make an effort to spend time with them as well. It's all about balance.

 

Regards