The Overhang

I'm the same. I was a trim 30-inch when I was in my early 20s and now that 50 is on the horizon I refuse to buy trousers in any other size.

Give me physical pain before mental submission any time.

Sure, I'd be more comfortable in a 32 inch waist. But that's not the point is it? Comfort has nothing to do with it. This is a batte of wills between my pride and my paunch.

I'm not alone. And to be fair, my modest Overhang is barely noticeable and easily concealed thanks to the wonders of baggy shirts.

But some guys are just beyond help. They cling doggedly to the trouser size of their youth - a size that simply cannot contain an Overhang that's overflowing like double-choc-chip ice cream from a tiny cone. Gravity always wins.

So far, efforts to control my own gut's instincts to take the line of least resistance - ie; a beeline for the floor - have been wholly unsuccessful.

I've already mentioned that I've taken up cycling. It's going fine but I haven't, as yet, noticed any less strain being exerted on my belt.

So I've gone for a double whammy and joined a gym too. . oh yes, the gauntlet has been well and truly thrown down. Have I got the stomach for a fight? You bet!