I was self-conscious about going to the gym, because I thought the
kilos I had put on would make me stand out among the spandex-clad
regulars.

I chose a treadmill in the corner so I'd be inconspicuous.

However, as I exercised, my worst fears came true.
At least a dozen people turned to stare at me periodically.
I thought it might be my imagination, but then one woman even squinted to get a better look.

Mortified, I stepped off the machine to leave.
When I turned around, I realized that the gym's only wall clock had been hanging just
inches above my head.