...Says Akshay Kumar, who is unarguably the fittest actor in the country.
Akshay Kumar is one of the fittest stars in Bollywood. He has always believed that fitness is about being healthy and not about six-pack abs and big muscles. Whenever he gets a chance, he encourages people around him to eat right and exercise. He is the brand ambassdor of special Olympics, and presently alongwith Yuva Sena chief Aaditya Thackeray, he is planning to open a martial arts training institute for women in Mumbai that will impart basic training for self-defence. Last year, he was the chief guest at the DNA ICan Women’s half marathon. This time, he shares with us his fitness mantra and his message to all the marathon runners.
“I do consider myself physically and mentally fit. I don’t sport washboard abs. Truth be told, no man my age can do that (without the help of supplements and steroids). But the regime I set for myself, prepares for any tough fight sequence, stunt, or choreography that’s required of me at anytime.”
“Running is one thing I avoid unfortunately. I really don’t want to offend anyone’s choice of training, this is just my personal view. I believe unless one wants to, and enjoys running a marathon, it is not the best form of fitness. Running can have a lot of impact on one’s body especially knees, and lower back. I save the wear and tear running and do my action sequences instead. I climb stairs for a controlled cardiovascular workout, as it causes the least amount of impact, yet gives full-body results. As of now I’m shooting in Pune and I’m climbing an average of 74 floors a day, to make up for not running.”
“People often get bored of their workouts. My secret for not getting bored is that I keep changing my workout. I keep doing different things like gymnastics, parkour, martial arts, rock-climbing, swimming, cricket, cycling, stair climbing and play volleyball and basketball with my son and his friends. Also, keeping at it on a daily basis depends on how serious you are about your health and fitness levels. In my house, everyone is active. It’s what brings us together, even my wife is at her happiest when she’s in full yoga mode. It’s just as important for women to reach their fitness potential as it is for men, if not more.”
“Women go through far more physical strife than men ever can. That’s why I feel great when I see so many women coming together for the DNA ICan Women’s Half Marathon. These ladies are extraordinary to not only fight for their husbands and children’s happiness and future everyday of their lives, but for their own as well... I wish them all the best! Remember if we can’t dedicate one hour to our own health, then we don’t deserve the miracle we call life!!!”
—As told to Upala KBR
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