Malaika Arora, 51, credited her mindset and consistency for her “longevity”. “Jab main college me bhi thi, even then I was very particular. Extremely. Khaana sahi khaana chahiye. Workout karna chahiye. I was always like that. I never took anything for granted. My sister would be like, ‘kya kar rahe ho yaar, you are a young person, go out, enjoy yourself, go party.’ I never did any of that. I would sleep on time, barely party, wake up early, and work out. My water therapy, I would do all of those things even back then,” the Chaiyya Chaiyya girl said.
Speaking with Pinkvilla, she added, “You may think I am exaggerating, but that’s how I have been. I think that’s been a part of my life and my journey throughout. We need to tweak certain aspects because we have to present a certain image, and we require a PR team to support you. I have made these changes. But essentially, the core me has remained the same.”
Emphasising that fitness is a lifestyle, Malaika said that it is not just about going to the gym and working out for four hours, “and ghar jaakar you don’t care, sleep at 3 am…aise thodi hota hai. You have to maintain a certain lifestyle, that’s what will give you a certain longevity. Having said that, I appreciate somebody who can just show up. You can get up and go for 20 minutes and hit the gym, walk, or run…whatever it is..”
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Working out is crucial (Photo: Freepik)
She also acknowledged her gratitude for each new day and shared that she enjoys starting her day with a workout, regardless of her schedule. “Showing up every day…waking up, being grateful for a new day…I am somebody who truly values that. We take so much for granted. I am somebody who has a routine, and I am particular about it. Kuch bhi hojaaye, I am going to work out in the morning…I feel it sets the tone for the day. I feel I am far more productive, I can achieve a lot more…”
Taking a cue from her, let’s explore the benefits of morning workouts.
Dr. Aniket Mule, consultant in internal medicine at KIMS Hospitals, Thane, agreed that most fitness enthusiasts prefer morning workouts because they help set the tone for the day. “Waking up and working out can provide an energy boost, enhance concentration, and rev up metabolism, and that means the body begins burning calories more productively right from the beginning of the day. Individuals find it easier to be regular with morning workouts as fewer distractions seep in than in the evenings,” said Dr Mule.
According to Dr Mule, exercising in the morning can help regulate hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which are naturally elevated at that time. “This aids in improved alertness and performance during exercise. Research also indicates that people who exercise in the morning are more apt to maintain the habit over the long term. It’s also a wonderful option to enhance sleep routines, since exercising too late at night might at times make it more difficult to relax,” said Dr Mule.
What should you note before starting morning workouts?
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Not everyone is a morning person with energy to burn, so it’s best to break into the routine. Dr. Mule said that one should begin with yoga, stretching, or a walk to prepare the body for more vigorous exercise. “The body is also slightly dehydrated from sleeping, so proper hydration is necessary. Eating something light to start, like fruit or a handful of nuts, will also prevent fatigue,” said Dr Mule.
While morning exercise is wonderful, it’s not ideal for everyone. Dr Mule noted that some people function best at night, especially those who struggle waking up early or work night shifts. “The most ideal exercise is the one that becomes part of your regular routine, whether early in the morning or after work,” said Dr Mule.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.