Model & actor SHAHWAR ALI says I spend more than an hour everyday at the gym – it keeps me feeling good and healthy. I am not much into cardio and so, morning walks are out for me. At the gym, I do a lot of weights.
Having been a sportsperson all through, I continue with my passion for sports and am part of the soccer and cricket teams that some of us who’re part of showbiz have formed. We play serious matches and even go out of town for tournaments. In fact, just last week, we had a match in Bhopal.
And then there’s yoga – I must do half an hour of pranayam and meditation for at least three to four times a week. It really helps calm me down specially because we people lead such hectic and stressful lives.
In fact, I’d recommend a fitness regime for everyone. Whoever says they don’t have the time, should look at people like Anil Ambani. His work must be keeping him busy through the day, yet he finds the time to exercise. It must not be easy, but he manages and remains so fit. I also really admire Salman Khan – look at the way he’s maintained himself over the last so many years. It’s not a question of being fit because you’re in showbiz – fitness must be a part of everyone’s life. It should be a must-follow regimen everyday, no matter how busy you are.
The diet that works for me
A good physique is not a result of starving yourself but a combo of good exercise and a healthy diet. For breakfast, I have egg-whites and milk followed by a protein shake sometime later. In fact, this is something I have three to four scoops of through the day. But, of course, there’s nothing like a proper meal – which for me comprises rice, dal, rotis, chicken-breasts, vegetables and salads. But, for dinner, I avoid rotis and prefer rice, because, contrary to what many people feel, rice is light and doesn’t make you feel stuffed.
What keeps me happy
I’m a complete family man – and nothing makes me happier than talking to my folks who stay in Bhopal, everyday or if time permits, going across and meeting them. Then, I also love spending time with the small group of friends that I have. We often go out for a meal and a movie, specially over the weekend because that’s when we’re a little relaxed and free.
