Updated: March 28, 2017
Originally Published: July 12, 2011
As mothers, our bodies have endured quite the journey. (And let’s not even start on those dreadful netted hospital undergarments.) Fortunately, as time goes on, we gradually find a sense of comfort in our own skin. We exercise to foster a healthy and joyful life.
Some of us take to running. Others prefer walking. There are those who indulge in Pilates or yoga. We attempt to limit junk food but occasionally treat ourselves to a BLT. We enroll in exercise classes and, by golly, we actually show up! But amidst all these efforts, I must ask: what on earth is going on with the Arm Dangle? Yes, that infamous Arm Dangle—those pesky bits of flab on the inner arms. Just raise your arm, pinch the skin beneath, and give it a tug. (Dear fitness icons and swimsuit models, you may want to stop reading now before I lose it.)
At only 42, I never imagined I’d be grappling with an Arm Dangle at this age. I envisioned it would be a dilemma for my 88-year-old self, who would be sporting thin, white hair and teaching stretching classes at a senior center. I pictured lifting my arm and watching it jiggle, while fellow seniors joined in, waving their own Arm Dangles along with me.
Then, one fateful day, I stumbled upon a photo of myself on social media and exclaimed, “Who is that woman on the right with the enormous flabby arm? Seriously, whose arm is that?! Please, for the love of all that is good, tell me this picture is a joke!”
To my horror, I saw yet another picture—not just one but multiple images showcasing those generous puffs of pale flesh spilling over my sleeveless top, as if they were embarking on a sea voyage. “Oh, come on… THAT IS ME!”
I must confess, I enjoy food. Always have, always will. Yet, I also exercise regularly, and it used to yield results! Nowadays, I wake up feeling bloated if I so much as sip too much water. Can someone explain what’s happening to my body? Why is it that this extra flab insists on congregating in such a conspicuous area, especially during summer when adorable sleeveless tops are finally available on sale?
No matter how diligently we work out or how mindful we are about our diets, it seems that cameras have a knack for capturing this specific body part in a way that makes it look like both arms are ready to take flight. And cropping that part out? Forget it—those unsightly mounds of flesh just keep stretching beyond the frame!
Let’s rewind to 1,800 years ago. Picture me wandering the wilderness with my baby wrapped in animal hides. Back then, I could understand the benefit of extra flab; living off berries and bark, that body fat could sustain me through days of a forced fast. But what purpose does it serve now?
I recently embarked on a week-long toning routine, planking like a champion. I felt a sense of pride until I caught a glimpse of my “winged friends” in another photo. After 42 years, I finally understand why my grandmother opts for a blouse over her tank tops.
So, does this mean the Arm Dangle is here to stay? I’m unsure, but I refuse to hide away. There are too many vibrant tank tops and sleeveless dresses in my wardrobe that deserve their moment. I’m just not ready to say a jiggly farewell just yet.
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In summary, the struggle with the Arm Dangle is real for many mothers, regardless of their fitness efforts. While we adapt to changes in our bodies, we also celebrate our resilience and the vibrant clothing that represents our identities.