What fitness means to you?
There is no single definition of fitness. Fitness is a very personal term! Fitness is having a healthy mind, body, and spirit to allow you to maximize your potential and help others maximize their potential. Your definition of fitness will be influenced by your interests, physical abilities, and goals. No matter what the definition is, it is important for every individual to keep their personal definition of fitness within a healthy framework.
Being a celebrity fitness trainer, do you feel the pressure of being judged?
Like any other job, there is always some sort of pressure, especially when you-re representing clients who are always in great shape. I really don’t take into consideration what the world says as long as I’m challenging myself every day and setting new benchmarks and being the best version of myself.
At present, you are training Alia, Janhavi, Deepika, and Katrina. Tell us more.
Fitness is a top priority for most Bollywood personalities. Irrespective of their crazy schedules, they always make time for fitness. It’s on rare occasions that they work out at an extremely erratic hour, and when they do, I appreciate their dedication of still making time for a workout. What I enjoy most about working with celebrities is their commitment to the way they want to look for each role, and how hard they’re willing to work for it. Katrina’s workout ranges from Pilates to functional training to cardio intervals. Deepika is elegant and lean and she enjoys doing Pilates which in turn works wonders on her body. While Alia is young and energetic, she loves doing something new and challenging every day.
How do you create a balance between your personal and professional life?
I am very good at time management and multi-tasking. I like to be hands-on with everything I do and being an entrepreneur and a homemaker is pretty much a full-time occupation. As much as I work hard, I have a social life as well and I plan a holiday with my family once a year.
What is the role of the mind in getting into shape?
‘Mental will’ is a muscle that needs exercise, just like the muscles of the body. People who commit to exercises as an intrinsic part of their lives are much more likely to succeed. Most successful athletes and bodybuilders have mastered the art of the mindset.
Your personal fitness mantra and the importance of dieting in getting fit.
I workout 6 days a week, 2 hours a day, an hour of pilates or functional training and an hour of cardio. I personally don’t take any supplements or recommend them. My belief is that if you have a wholesome, well-balanced food-plan, it should cover all that your body requires. It’s 70 percent diet and 30 percent workout. My eating mantra is ‘Eat Smart’ and don’t be on a ‘see-food’ diet (you don’t have to eat everything you see. Each meal (even snack) should have a portion of protein, fibre, good fats, and carbs.
How important are cheat days?
Sunday is my rest and cheat day. As long as you are following 90 percent of your diet plan, you can include 1-2 cheat meals per week to stay sane. However, a cheat meal does not constitute a whole day of cheating. It prevents you from feeling deprived, boosts metabolism, and increases chances of success with a diet. I always suggest, a high-protein, high-carb, low-fat, and alcohol-free cheat day in case you have a tendency to overeat.
Your idea of unwinding on a relaxed day.
Catching up with family and friends for a movie, reading a novel, or travelling to new destinations.
Fitness tips for busy people.
Don’t get obsessed with your workout. While it is important to be fit, one should never compromise on health for fitness. Do it in moderation and do it right.
Rapid Fire:
The best form of exercise: Pilates
Social media for you: Necessity
Latest book you are reading: How Women Rise by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith
Bizzare fitness goal: Participating in women’s fitness competition
Last place travelled: Bali
Favourite holiday destination: Croatia
Weakness in terms of food: Anything sweet
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