Michael's Corner

Men and women are equal, but they are not the same. Yeah, I know. To put those words in print could place one in a political minefield from which they may never successfully tiptoe. Nevertheless, for the sake of this post, I shall bypass the postmodern view and keep to the lane of objective reality.

     How can I dare assert that men and women are not the same? I am the owner of a fortunate asset: 20/20 vision. Although were my sight less than optimally proficient, I would still have the capability to recognize that women’s feet are typically smaller and thus somewhat delicate, their legs are shapelier, and their bottoms, because of the positions of their hips, offer a desirable focal point. Women, to men’s everlasting delight, have the benefit of duality concerning sex appeal. As for men? Our sexual desire may manifest below the waist, but our sex appeal lies primarily north of our navels. And that brings me to the theme of this post:

     I am someone who has spent my share of time inside fitness clubs. I am also a reasonably acute observer. What have I noticed? Men, particularly those under thirty-five, spend an exorbitant amount of time working out their upper bodies. Why? Because well-toned biceps, deltoids, pectorals, and abdominal muscles go a long way in enhancing a man’s sex appeal and increasing the probability of him getting noticed by women. It amuses me to observe young men like the mythological character Narcissus gaze in the mirror when performing bicep curls. Men over sixty don’t ignore their lower bodies. Still, they place an unbalanced premium on their upper halves.

     Men, pay attention! Make these following words the rubric of your fitness philosophy: YOU WILL ONLY GO AS FAR IN LIFE AS YOUR LEGS WILL TAKE YOU. When you are shoulder pressing, bench pressing, curling, and crunching, keep those words in your head, and don’t leave the gym until you have given your lower body the attention it deserves. Again, be kind to your legs; they will return the favor when it comes time to haul around your future self. The mature you will be grateful that you took the time to build a sturdy base.

     If you’re uncomfortable doing hack squats, start with leg presses. If you’re not a “machine guy,” dipping with kettlebells and passing a kettlebell between your legs is an excellent way to work your lower body. Now, get to work!

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