Q: Hi, Tanja! About six years ago I finished losing the last of my weight (75 pounds!) but now my weight has gone back up 12 pounds (yikes!). I have tried to go back to my five days a week exercise, which includes jogging and eating better. What is wrong? It seems that I have forgotten how to keep my calories down and my knee hurts more. What is the best way to keep motivated with food and exercise with a bum knee? Sweets are my weakness!
– Venessa

A: Hi, Venessa. Congratulations on your weight loss! That is a great accomplishment! As you know, body weight moves up and down slightly – maybe one to three pounds – and will not stay exactly the same all the time. It can’t. But a 12-pound weight gain definitely has a reason. I can imagine that since you are saying sweets are your weakness, that it is also a reason for weight gain.

If jogging hurts your knee at this point, mix up your cardio workouts. Use an elliptical or cross-trainer along with spinning and/or rowing, resting in-between so that your knee manages to heal and recover a bit. If your knee problem persists, definitely go and see a doctor. For a “bad” knee, you might use a foam roller. Stretch and recovery between training days is very, very important.

Throughout this process, you will have to remind yourself what is more important – your physical health and a satisfying life, or giving in to your sweet tooth?! Can you will your way through it? Is it worth it? Are you worth it? I would answer YES, and the feeling of success will just increase your motivation … you will feel great!!

Ask your body what’s really up. I think you have the answer right there: is it the sweet tooth and less exercise? Be honest. You deserve it!!

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