Although Lindsey's gotten stronger physically and mentally, one of the biggest challenges she faced was accepting the weight she was gaining. "I feel like society is so focused on women being lean, so it was hard to accept the fact that I was gaining weight and growing when society sets standards to do the opposite." Instead of succumbing to those standards, Lindsey said, "I learned to focus on myself and set the standards for myself."
Scale aside, Lindsey said, "One of the bigger victories I've experienced is seeing my strength improve. I'm lifting heavier weights now than I ever thought I would be able to lift four years ago." She's also become a faster runner and can complete 10 strict pull-ups in a row. "My self-esteem and confidence have improved, and I am so proud of myself and how far I've come. I even feel comfortable in a swimsuit, which I haven't felt since I was a little kid. That is probably the biggest victory: breaking through the toxic and unhealthy perception I had of myself."
Lindsey stays motivated by the fact that she recently joined the Army and will be leaving for basic training and officer candidate school at the end of December. One goal she's set for herself is to pass ranger school, and this keeps her motivated to continue training.
