Nakuul Mehta started out as a model and film actor but became big on TV with his show Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara. Now, he is winning hearts in the romantic drama Ishqbaaz as Shivaay Oberoi. The actor talks about how he maintains his physique, the importance of fitness and more...
Fitness fundas
Fitness to me is not just aesthetics or the exterior, but what one feels inside. Hence, it is a combination of spiritual and physical well-being. The three principles I follow are exercise, eat right and get enough rest. To be honest, the most challenging is the latter and it seldom happens. I hit the gymnasium at least thrice a week and run on the beach as often as I can. Luckily, my work gives me enough opportunities to do physical work and get some sun, hence sometimes lack of gym time gets compensated.
Work out regime
My trainer, Praveen Tokas, who also extensively works with athletes and cricketers has devised a plan which is a mix of weights, functional and yoga to take care of my fitness needs. Diet forms an integral part of this routine and I have been on the path to avoid gluten and dairy from my meals slowly.
Outdoor sports
In the little time we get off studios, I do sometimes indulge in a game of tennis, but running continues to remain my favourite thing to do. Running on the beach with the wind hitting your face and your mind allowed to roam around the entire expanse of the open space is my antidote to the chaos of a city life. Hence, I would urge men and women to take up jogging as an exercise.
Women should give importance to fitness
In a country like ours, women often take the backseat, traditionally, when it comes to finding time for themselves as priorities lie in nurturing and taking care of the family. Hence, fitness is often given very little importance. I feel it is about time, we encourage our mothers, grandmothers, sisters and friends to make time to find their own fitness ritual.
ICan is a wonderful intiative
DNA Women's Half Marathon is a pioneer in encouraging this wonderful thought and initiative of bringing the women to the streets, out of the rigmaroles of their daily routines and encouraging them to be fit. I recall being part of the very first DNA Women's marathon in the capacity of a bystander wanting to encourage friends who were participating and it feels so amazing that today this initiative has grown and become one of the landmark events of our city. I would suggest whoever is running a marathon to be well-prepared. Ideally, one must begin at least three months prior to the run. Correct diet and rest is a must. Also, one must try and get professional help to make sure the running stance and gait is correct. One can look up the Internet for help, too. Practice enough and get a good night's rest before the run. Ideally hydrate yourself and have a simple carbs diet before the run to keep the energy levels up.
