By Ananya Swaroop
Kunal Kapoor was in the news last year for jaw-dropping body transformation for a film that required him to be out of shape as well as fighting fit. But how does he otherwise retain his usual lean physique? The actor reveals
A WEEK IN FITNESS
For me, fitness has always been about pushing myself. Not only physically, but also mentally. No two weeks actually look the same. I try to keep it as varied and interesting as possible. I am constantly experimenting with new forms of working out unless I am training for a film.
THE MUST-HAVE GYM EQUIPMENT FOR A HOME GYM
The three things that I would recommend are a TRX, a foam roller and a whole set of bands that I can work out with. I carry these in my travel bag wherever I go.
TO GAIN MUSCLES
I think what works for me are compound heavy exercises like bench presses, squats, deadlifts, and shoulder presses. What is also a crucial part of gaining mass is your diet and rest. It is something people underestimate. You need to focus on what you are eating, how many calories you are taking, and the source of these calories. And when you have control over what you are consuming, you also need to take some rest.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN WORKING OUT
The most important thing to keep in mind is to always keep it interesting. You need to find ways to make it fun. Fitness should be a considerable part of your life. It is about pushing your limits and knowing the difference between good pain and bad pain.
A MUSCLE GROUP HE LOVES AND HATES TO WORK ON
Most people enjoy working on parts of the body that are already strong and hate working on the weak parts. I love doing it the other way around. I skip biceps most of the time and legs are what I focus the most on.
HIS FITNESS INSPIRATION
It is quite incredible the kind of impact movies have on you. Each time I get into the pool the Jaws theme plays in my head for a couple of seconds. Each time I get into the gym, the Rocky theme plays in my head. So yes, Sylvester Stallone has been an inspiration for the longest time. Recently, I have started following Israeli trainer Ido Portal whose approach to fitness is very different from the traditional method.
TOP THREE GYM TRACKS
All the songs from the Rocky movies, sometimes it’s the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Sometimes I am in the mood for something calmer.
A FICTIONAL CHARACTER HE’D LIKE TO WORK OUT WITH
I’ve never thought about that but might be fun to work out with Max Max or the Terminator.
TOP THREE CHEAT MEAL PREFERENCES
Cheat meals have to be loaded with sugar and carbs. So pancakes, a nice gooey chocolate cake, and pizza.
Reproduced with permission from Mansworldindia.com
