Its 2026. New Year’s Resolution.

Abs. Everyone wants them, few achieve them, and many give up halfway when reality sets in. We’re told they enhance sports performance, prevent back pain, improve posture, help us breathe easier—and of course, make us look slim. But the journey to chiseled abs isn’t just about crunches and gym hours; it often clashes with real life, tough choices, and, in my case, a love for food and a body that’s been pushed hard by years of squash.

Abs improve sports performance, prevent lower back pain, improve posture, help you breathe better, and make you look slim.

Difficult decision

I had to make a difficult decision.

Tendonitis has struck my right arm. My knees are hurting. My back feels like it is in dried concrete. As a result of playing squash for over a decade.

The doctor recommended that it is time to give up squash.

I love squash as it is like a physical chess match. It is fast. It is a sport for gentlemen. Rude, brash, loud, cheaters need not apply. If your opponent hits a good shot, you compliment them on it. The adrenaline rush is the best.

Recommendation

The doctor recommends weights and swimming.

Eureka.

Therefore, I am in Chapters checking some of the health magazines. Getting a six-pack is the flavor of the month. Similarly, some magazines claim it can be done in 6 weeks.

After reading the magazine, getting abs in six weeks is a tempting proposition.

I try hard for six weeks and I am sure it is my failing eyesight, but the six-pack does not arrive as promised.

Healthy food

At the gym, I notice a young dude all cut with a nice six-pack. I ask him for some advice.

He eats egg whites for breakfast, oat cookies for a snack, plain grilled turkey breast for lunch, boiled spinach for a snack in the afternoon and grilled steak with broccoli for dinner. In addition, he takes an assortment of protein shakes. Similarly, a few more supplements that help you burn your fat.

So, you mean no pasta, coke, cakes, chocolates, ice cream, and sauces?

Yeah right.

Jerry, a lot has to do with genetics. Secondly, 70% has to do with food intake. Only 20% is in the gym. In addition, Indians win the spelling bee competition, not Mr. Universe. Point noted.

After 30 minutes on the stationary bike and a little bit on the treadmill, I venture home. In front of Debbie and Jean, I strike a pose. Jean said ‘whatever dad’. Debs came over, gave me a huge hug, and said that she loved me.

I dug into the tender butter chicken and naan that I ordered from the restaurant.

I love food.

Photo Credits: charles gaudreault  Alora Griffiths

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