RobbyP:
Strength, flexibility, endurance, mobility and well-functioning organs have always been important to me. Tree-climbing, martial arts and casual sports (mostly tree climbing) were my go-to exercise in my teens. In my twenties I yoyoed, from 170 lean to 211 at my heaviest then. Not until this year had I gone past it. The difference in activity for me is less climbing, not because I can't lift myself but because it would hurt the trees more now. The extra weight allows me to swing heavy objects with less effort, and assists a lot in grappling. My cardio and heart rates were at their unhealthiest when I ate sucrose, grains and soy lecithin in my mid twenties. Switching to raw fruit and/or honey, I'm once again perfectly comfortable with a 540 kcalorie burning, 30 minute elliptical session. The only uncomfortable thoughts I have about appearance are imagining that people will want me erased if I wear sweatpants or gym-shorts out of the house and imagining that my parents wish that I lose weight and keep it off due to a sense of disgust and thinking, "That is the only correct way for a man to live."
Can't speak for your parents, but I can promise you people at the gym don't care. A lot of them are focused on their workouts. If they do notice you, then they are likely congratulating you for making an effort to stay in shape.
It sucks to hear that your parents do not approve of your appearance. Just remember their opinions do not matter. Do what makes you feel happy and safe.
