Fitness is like meditation, says actor Rishaab Chauhaan

Rishaab Chauhaan, who is winning hearts with his role in Ishq Jabariya, reveals how he keeps himself in top shape and always camera-ready.

How do you prioritise fitness with such a busy acting schedule?

Fitness is not something I do under pressure, it’s a part of my lifestyle. I love living a disciplined life. I don’t drink or smoke, which helps me stay healthier than those who do. Even with a 9 am to 9 pm shoot schedule, I make sure to wake up early, around 5 or 6 am, and get in a one-hour workout before starting my day.

How do you stay flexible with your workout routine, given the unpredictable work hours?

Even if I have a 7 am shoot for Ishq Jabariya, I still wake up at 3 am to make sure I don’t miss my workout. I focus on eating clean and healthy. I make sure to work out six days a week.

What role does nutrition play in your routine?

Nutrition is everything! It’s the main factor in achieving fitness goals. I would say that 90 per cent of your physique depends on what you eat. Clean eating is the key, even on days when you can’t work out. Healthy food is what fuels my body. Also, I haven’t eaten whole wheat roti in the past 12 years.

How does staying fit benefit your mental well-being?

For me, fitness is like meditation. If I skip my workout for two days, I get depressed. Working out keeps me happy. It pumps my blood, boosts my adrenaline, and makes me feel good. I’ve seen people come out of depression just by working out. Try it for three months, and you won’t be able to stop!

As an actor, do you feel the pressure to look fit? How do you handle that?

There’s no pressure to look fit, it’s just a part of my lifestyle. Before entering the entertainment industry, I was a cricketer, so I’ve been into fitness since 2010. I’ve always been fit, and there’s no pressure, but, yes, being fit is part of the industry’s demands. It’s something that comes naturally to me.

What are two fitness tips you would offer to beginners?

First, stop eating sugar. It’s just like your enemy! Replace sugar with healthier alternatives like stevia or sugar-free products (but not too much of those). The second tip is to try intermittent fasting. It’s great for your body, gut, skin, and overall health. It helps you stay in shape and improves your energy. Also, weightlifting is important, especially after 40, to maintain muscle mass and strength.