Let me make it clear that fitness doesn’t mean a ripped body full of muscles and strength.
Yes, it is the most extreme version of fitness, but it’s not necessary for everyone to be that extreme version of themselves, not everyone can do it, and not everyone needs to do it. The aim is to be healthy while being a decent shape because not everyone has the time, money, and desire to put into it. Let’s discuss what a habit is in terms of fitness, I remember, working out in the gym came very naturally to me, I liked the process itself. After 8 days of working, creating a habit out my every misconception was gradually breaking down. I wanted to lift but my body was too weak, and I lacked the strength and techniques. The realization that I will have to research exercises and their ways to do it and to implement the techniques was burdensome. My gym partner left the gym after the 20th day but I continued going to the gym. After a month of working out regularly for 4 days a week, the habit was formed and since then I don’t have to think twice before packing for the gym. Nobody accepts it but ‘starting’ is the most difficult phase of your fitness journey, if somehow you manage to circumvent it, you will be ready to face the upcoming difficulties.
Hello, I am Kumar Sarthak, as a fitness enthusiast and Indian professional, I want to share my experience with you.
Title: 7 Practical Tips to Make Fitness a Habit in Your Busy Indian Work Life!!!
Living a busy work life in India can be challenging. The long hours at the office, along with the limited knowledge about fitness, make it tough to incorporate healthy habits into our routines. Make fitness a priority with these steps.
1.Small, Achievable Goals
Setting aside 20-30 minutes each day for exercise, such as brisk walking, bodyweight exercises, or yoga, can make a significant impact. You can wake up a little earlier or dedicate some time during your lunch break to achieve this. Don’t even join a gym for the first few months, every part of your body can be easily trained in your own house. For the first 8 months, I trained in my house with some light weights and some resistance bands. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your activities as you become comfortable with your routine.
2.Utilize Your Commute Wisely
With Indian cities being congested with traffic, commuting can be time-consuming. My gym was 2 .5 km away from my house. If I went with the vehicle, it took around 15 minutes because of traffic and signals and if I walk it would take 20 minutes. I calculated the pros and cons and decide to walk every day to the gym as I no longer need to do cardio every day for 20 minutes after working out, so in addition to saving fuel money, it also saved me 20 minutes each day. This will not only save you time but also help you add physical activity to your daily routine.
3.Embrace Traditional Indian Exercises
Indian exercises like Surya Namaskar and Pranayama (breath control exercises) and a lot more have been time-tested and proven to improve flexibility, strength, balance, and mental well-being. Fitness encompasses not only the body but the mind too, train your mind with meditation and focus exercises.
Fitness and diet go hand in hand. As soon as I started eating according to my body requirements, my workout improved exponentially, I was gaining muscles and recovering way sooner than before. Opt for nutritious Indian dishes like dal, sabzi, and roti, while limiting fried and sugary foods. Planning your meals and carrying homemade snacks can help you avoid unhealthy eating habits while at the office. In the beginning, you do not need a strict and structured diet, just a nutritious diet will be enough.
5.Involve Your Friends and Colleagues
Involving your colleagues in your fitness journey can make it fun and enjoyable. Personally, I have had two gym partners, and both of them left working out after not more than 20 days, but everybody has different kinds of people around them so do ask them to join in your fitness journey. This will keep you motivated and create a supportive and fun environment for all involved.
6.Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
Amidst a hectic work schedule, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. Staying hydrated is crucial for your energy levels and overall health. Keep a water bottle at your desk and set reminders to take sips throughout the day. Drinking enough water can help you stay focused, prevent fatigue, and keep your body functioning optimally.
7.Seek Guidance from Fitness Apps and Videos
Everything is already available for free on youtube and the internet, you just have to learn and apply it to yourself. Before following anyone’s advice do check their credibility and choose wisely. Do not go for all sorts of advanced workout plans, choose one and stick with it for the next 6 months. Achieving excellence in a handful of exercises is way more effective than performing numerous exercises without mastering them. These resources offer guided workouts, nutritional tips, and motivation. They cater to various fitness levels and can be conveniently accessed from your smartphone or laptop.
Conclusion
Making fitness a habit is the biggest cure of depression, it may seem challenging, but with these practical tips, it is achievable. Start with achievable goals, embrace traditional Indian exercises, and make smart food choices. Utilize your commute wisely and involve your co-workers to create a supportive environment. Staying hydrated and seeking guidance from fitness apps and videos can also help keep you motivated. Remember, every small step towards fitness counts, and with persistence, you will notice positive changes in your overall well-being and energy levels. You will soon find changes not only at a physical level but also at a mental level, your capability of focusing will enhance with time. Be the best version of yourself.
KUMAR SARTHAK
(FITNESS ENTHUSIAST)
NOIDA, UP, INDIA