Hard work in gym pays off

Dear Abby: I’m average, fitnesswise, and work in an office. My girlfriend, who is naturally athletic, has belonged to a gym for a year. Our two fitness paths collided when I was enjoying a coffee with her and her training partner, “Trixi,” at her place one day.

Trixi made a muscle. When I complimented her on her impressive arm definition, she responded I should see my girlfriend’s. When my girlfriend flexed, her bicep popped up so high my eyes bulged. Trixi then pushed us to arm wrestle. I’m 3 inches taller than my girlfriend, and I’m a man, so I thought I would win.

Anyway, two times on the right and once on the left, I ended up with the back of my hand securely pinned down to the table to their extreme amusement. I felt embarrassed because there was nothing I could do to stop stronger arms driving me down.

The upshot is, I feel there has been a power shift in our relationship. My girlfriend will now teasingly flex when she wants something. She also enjoys challenging me in public. I have now been defeated in arm wrestling in front of her parents and a group of her cheering girlfriends. How should I adjust? her

Dear Outmuscled: A wise person asks his or her physician before starting a diet and/or exercise program. Then, if you get the go-ahead, go to a gym and gradually begin a regular exercise program. While you’re there, ask a trainer to help you get started with the weights and machines so you can learn proper form and build yourself up rather than tear yourself down.