I go through phases of wanting to get fit. Some days I'm more than happy with my "spare tire" – you could even say proud. As a child I remember being told that if someone calls you fat you should just push out your belly, slap it heartily and shout, “It's all paid for, pal.” Other times, though, I have this vision of being able to show off a six-pack at the beach, as opposed to just bringing a six-pack of beer to a pool party. Don't get me wrong. I'm not averse to exercise; I really enjoy it. I play badminton and soccer, and at home I have free weights and a training mat, but my problem is discipline … as well as that magical cupboard in my apartment that fairies seem to fill with biscuits and chocolate while I sleep. My wife sometimes forwards me stuff about fat-shaming fads, which seem popular here. I don't know whether she sends them to inspire or sicken, but after seeing all those selfies of Chinese women showing off "A4 stomachs" (covering their midriff with a bit of paper) or "100-yuan wrists" (wrapping a bill around their wrist) it certainly isn't the former. A4 stomach? Right now, I'm not sure I'd get away with A3. As I'm too miserly to fork out on a gym, I did the next best thing – began browsing the iPhone App Store for free fitness apps. Forget weights – that alone is exhausting. I didn't realize there was so much choice in health and fitness apps. There are thousands offering advice and tutorials, and most let you track your progress and share it with the world, should you be inclined. (I'm not.) |