HOW I KEEP FIT

Are you a fitness freak?

Frankly, I wasn’t much of a fitness freak. In fact, I used to make fun of people who were obsessive about it. It’s only now that I’ve become so particular. The thing about fitness is that once you get into it, it’s impossible to give up. Now, I fret over my fitness.

Do you gym a lot?
I used to gym everyday, until recently. I did some wrong weight-training and had a bad back and could not move for days. One has to be very particular and not go overboard. My advice to everyone is make sure that you have a good trainer who guides you well through your exercise regimen.

If not the gym, what other alternatives do you explore?

I have enrolled in aerobics and kickboxing classes. It’s a lot of fun and also extremely effective. After one hour, I feel absolutely drained. Yet, I’m assured that I’ve done my share of workout for the day. That, and my constant dance rehearsals and shows, takes care of my fitness.

Do you prefer group classes?

Absolutely. I’ve realised that group energy is great. I prefer it over working out alone. It gives a different high altogether. Even if one feels exhausted, one can draw motivation from others in the group.

Do you follow any particular diet?

One has to, there’s no other choice. My dietician charts my diet. I start my day with lime juice and honey with dried fruits. I may skip breakfast if I wake up late. In that case, I have chapatis for lunch. I almost never have white rice or white atta. Rice is mostly avoided, unless it’s brown rice.

Does that mean, you don’t eat out?

Fortunately, I’m not fond of eating out. I rather like eating at home. Besides, if I ever do eat out, I suffer from intolerable guilt pangs and then I make up for it. Like, the last time I couldn’t resist a cheesy pasta, but I ensured that I made up for it.

—AS TOLD TO SUNAINA KUMAR