Guys don’t talk about this because it’s a sign of perceived weakness to admit that men, while given an easier ride than women, still feel like shit because they can’t fit into a particular pair of pants. Admitting that men obsess over their weight would be to admit that we’re breakable. Admitting how much it hurts to be called overweight by a family member what is it with old ladies and loving to bring this shit up? is painful.
The assumption is that people who are overweight want to be that way, or at the very least, are “too lazy” to “get out” of being fat. And in some cases, some people are just fine being whatever weight they want. But for those who feel self-conscious and shitty about it, the way out isn’t to shame them.
It isn’t to expose, insult or belittle them. That will only serve to layer on more malaise and torpor that makes it tough to change anything. Losing weight is an obtuse, non-linear and exhausting process, requiring diligence, routine and blind faith. In short, it takes so much time, so much more time than most people realize.
Fitness only makes this worse that is, most people don’t really know what they’re talking about. As a guy, you’re told to run and lift weights, because “cardio burns fat and weightlifting builds muscle.” In reality, the weight loss/fat/muscle equation is incredibly complex, with each person much like dieting being unique in what works for them.
Worse still, the amount of calories most people burn during exercise is depressingly small. All this while exposing yourself physically in a place where everyone seems to be stronger and thinner than you. Trainers love to ask if you’re interested in setting up some sessions, most of which is an awkward combination of low weightlifting and burst cardio that really just serves to hurt you.
