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Ranked among the Top 3 in FITTR’s Transformation Challenge
Let’s Get Inspired
In Conversation with Garima Anand
– Preeti Juneja
Q. What inspired you to take fitness seriously?
It was my deteriorating health, including knee issues, being overweight, anxiety, and depression. I didn’t like what I saw in the mirror.
Three years ago, I was suffering from major anxiety issues, even had to get hospitalized in the middle of the night. I was undergoing extensive counseling sessions when my doctor asked me what I enjoyed most. I told him I liked going to the gym and listening to music. He encouraged me to start doing those activities again, and since then, there has been no looking back.
Q What kind of pushback did you encounter from family and friends during your fitness journey?
Fortunately, I haven’t faced any resistance from my family. My husband, kids, and mother-in-law were incredibly supportive throughout my journey. They simply wanted me to find happiness and overcome my anxiety issues.
My fitness journey began with the support of my husband. He’s a fitness enthusiast himself and has always encouraged me to prioritize health and fitness. I’ve received immense support from him throughout this journey. Not a day went by without me hitting the gym.
I was dedicated to my workouts, and my diet was always on point with no cheat meals whatsoever. I was committed to achieving my goals, no matter what.
In fact, he was the one who told my kids, “This is your mom’s ‘me time’ at the gym, and you shouldn’t disturb her. If she has to go, it means she has to be in the gym. Don’t give her any work during that time.”
Q. How did you overcome the naysayers to sustain your passion for fitness?
This was the most challenging aspect of my fitness journey because of the numerous judgments I faced. When I was overweight, people would call me names like “Pehelwan,” “Lambichori,” or say, “You’ve become quite healthy.” And when I began my journey, they questioned why I exercised so much, asking, “Do you want to become like a man?”
My husband and coach were there to support and guide me. They advised me to simply ignore naysayers, and let them say what they want. To overcome the naysayers, simply ignore them and let them say what they want. Just smile back at them. I’d say, stay focused, disciplined, and consistent, no matter what obstacles come your way.
Q. How are you inspiring others around you to embrace fitness?
I am currently a certified diet and workout consultant, providing personalized diet and workout plans to my clients. People in my community see my discipline in the gym and observe the way I work out. Whether or not I inspire them, they definitely take notice.
I’ve been sharing my workout videos and reels on social media. People often approach me, seeking tips and asking about my transformation journey.
Q. What common myths about fitness would you like to debunk?
A common myth in women’s fitness is the fear that working out will make them look huge and manly. This is not true. Women who work out will become stronger and more curvaceous, and while they will gain muscle, they will not look manly.
Also, there’s a common misconception that going to the gym alone will lead to weight loss and fat loss. The truth is, the key factor is maintaining a proper diet. To lose fat, you must create a calorie deficit, while for weight gain, you need to be in a calorie surplus. So, both diet and strength training are crucial components of your fitness journey.
Rapid-Fire:
- Energy food you recommend the most
Good protein rich diet
2. Food you must avoid at all costs:
All kind of packaged food at the store counter
3. 5 must-have things at home to get you started:
– Fitness goal
– Strength Training
– Balanced and Discipline routine
– Quantified Diet
– Good sleep / Good recovery time
4. Your advice for 40-plus women?
It’s important for all women to incorporate strength training alongside cardio into their fitness routine, along with a balanced diet and adequate protein intake. It helps in,
– Boosting bone density
– Enhancing functional movement
– Weight maintenance
– Muscle rebuilding
– Promoting good mental health
– Combatting osteoporosis, which often occurs post-menopause.
5. Quick snack to keep in your bag?
– Bananas
– Boiled eggs
– Salad
– Soya chunks
About Author
Garima Anand
Certified by the Institute of Nutrition and Fitness Sciences, Garima Anand now offers diet and workout fitness consultancy from home. A homemaker turned fitness enthusiast, she inspires many people eager to transform their lives just like she did. If she doesn’t inspire, nothing can.
05th June 2024
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