Father’s Day 2024: Jason Chua on becoming a dad and staying fit

Read about his diet, fitness schedule, and his precious time with Amara

For avid Garage readers, you may recognize Jason from our pages. Back in 2016, we discussed his life on Instagram and his photo editing preferences. Fast forward to 2024, we’ve explored one of the most significant shifts in his life: fatherhood and how to navigate it.

“When I was single, I had the freedom to do whatever I wanted with my time. I could accept last-minute invitations, stay out late, and focus solely on my personal goals and interests,” Jason shared. “Now that I’m a father, I value my time much more. My priorities have shifted significantly, and I often decline most invitations to prioritize being at home with my family. This adjustment has taught me the importance of being present and making the most of every moment with my loved ones.”

A lot has changed since we last talked to the model and athlete, but one thing has remained the same: he still takes care of his physique. Jason used to prefer lifting heavy weights to build as much muscle as possible. Now, with his own family, his focus has shifted to training for longevity and overall wellness, as well as preventing injury to ensure quality time with his wife, Queenie, and their daughter, Amara.

For Father’s Day, we talked to Jason about how he navigates fatherhood, being a husband, and maintaining the discipline to stay fit. From shifts in perspective, nutrition, and how his fitness routine has changed, read through our exchange below:

How has becoming a father changed your perspective on life and your priorities?

There’s a greater sense of pressure and urgency to work harder, not just for personal achievements but to ensure a secure future for my family. I’ve learned to balance being present in the moment with my family while also planning and investing for the future. This dual focus has made me more disciplined and driven.

What’s your diet like? What do you avoid eating?

My diet is high in protein, and I enjoy cooking my own meals to ensure they are nutritious. My typical meals include chicken breast, lean ground beef, eggs, and steak paired with rice. While I enjoy sweets occasionally, I generally avoid them to maintain a healthy diet. My approach is to eat 80 percent healthy, focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods, and allowing myself 20 percent flexibility to indulge in foods I enjoy, including some junk food. This balance helps me stay on track with my fitness goals while also enjoying life.

How is your fitness schedule like? How do you stay fit?

I work out every day, making it a priority to exercise first thing in the morning before my family wakes up. My workouts include a mix of strength training and cardio exercises to keep my body balanced. I find that this early morning routine helps me stay consistent and prevents me from feeling too tired or lazy later in the day. Staying fit is not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good and being able to participate fully in all aspects of life, especially as a father.

What’s your favorite bonding time with Amara?

One of my favorite bonding activities with my daughter, Amara, is our daily visits to the toy store. Living in a condo near a mall gives us easy access, and the toy store has become her playground. It’s a joy to see her face light up with excitement as she explores and plays. I also love taking walks with her around the neighborhood. These walks are a great way to spend quality time together, and they also help me keep up with my daily steps. These simple yet meaningful activities strengthen our bond and create lasting memories.

What advice would you give to other new dads who might be feeling overwhelmed or unsure about their new role?

It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed or a bit scared when you first become a father. Every dad goes through it, and it’s part of the learning process. My advice is to take things one step at a time and remember that it’s okay to make mistakes; you’ll figure it out as you go. Having financial stability is crucial, so make sure you have savings and a budget in place before having kids. Baby-related expenses can add up quickly, and being prepared can alleviate some of the stress. Most importantly, be present and cherish every moment with your child, as these early years go by faster than you can imagine.