Your Waistline, Your Health—and My Honest Struggle

Firestone Fitness

Livable Lifestyle with Leslie

I’ll be honest: sometimes I feel like a hypocrite sharing this information when nutrition is my own nemesis. Being a personal trainer doesn’t mean I have everything figured out.

We cope with tragedy and devastation differently. Some overeat; others struggle to eat. Me? I’m an indulger. Food can be a comfort. I’m also fighting depression and trying to find happiness without guilt. It’s hard, and I don’t want to pretend otherwise.

But I’m reminding myself that struggling doesn’t mean I have nothing helpful to share. I’m working on this alongside you.

📏 Why your waist matters

This isn’t about smaller jeans. Excess visceral fat—the fat deep inside your abdomen around your organs—is linked with heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, even at a “normal” weight. (Mayo Clinic)

Waist-to-height ratio compares your waist measurement with your height. For many adults, the screening guide is a waist less than half their height: a ratio below 0.5. For example, a 32-inch waist divided by a 64-inch height equals 0.5. Use the same units for both. (NHS)

For this NHS method, measure halfway between your lowest rib and the top of your hip bone. Keep the tape level and snug, not tight. Breathe out normally without sucking in. (British Heart Foundation)

Separately, Mayo Clinic flags waist measurements above 35 inches for women or 40 inches for men as signs of increased risk, using a measurement just above the hip bones. (Mayo Clinic)

These are screening tools—not diagnoses or measures of your worth. The NHS ratio tool isn’t appropriate during pregnancy, with an eating disorder, or with an adult BMI over 35; ask your healthcare professional for individualized guidance. (NHS)

💪 What can we work on?

Work toward strength training at least twice weekly and 150 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking, each week. Start where you are. Build meals around vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and lean protein; watch portions and replace sugary drinks with water. (Mayo Clinic)

And remember: core exercises build strength, but they cannot selectively remove belly fat. (NASM)

For me, calling out my habits is the beginning. Actually making changes is the next step. This week, I’m challenging myself—and you—to choose one manageable action and follow through.

All of this takes time. A workout or healthy meal won’t erase grief, and I don’t have to navigate the hard parts alone. I can take responsibility while giving myself grace.

I’m not asking you to be perfect. I’m reminding both of us to keep caring for ourselves.

Keep in the Zone with Firestone!

❤️ Leslie

Educational information, not medical advice. Based on Mayo Clinic, NHS, and NASM resources; not an organizational endorsement.