When Grover feels like giving up, that's when he pushes himself the most. "If my mind tells me that I should skip my workout, that's when I feel the need to stretch myself the most." This body-mind connect is what makes him persistent and dedicated. After a year of working with the Sheraton, Muscat, the ex- hotelier (Grover holds a Bachelor of Science degree in hospitality management), he decided to pursue his original career plan- acting. This do-or-die attitude is what has kept him going, in spite of no Bollywood backing to lead him. And now the actor is more than determined to make his way into the film industry based on his own terms.
Having battled several injuries "his six-pack physique is his best companion," he says. He shares with MH the secret behind his success.
THE MEANING OF FITNESS DIFFERENTIATES FROM PERSON TO PERSON
In the past, fitness was focused only on one dimensional workouts, but now there are a lot of options that one can look at. Every day there are new forms that are being invented or discovered, One of them is calisthenics, (where you use your own body weight to perform all the routines), which has good results if done right. Also, including yoga and its various forms into your routines is a great way of getting better results. Your focus shouldn't be just on weight training and cardiovascular exercises, but a combination of everything. It's important to concentrate on not one particular form of workout, but to keep changing and adopting new forms of exercises. But while you do that, don't just follow the workouts blindly; rather perform them based on your individual strength and fitness levels.
THE BIGGEST FITNESS CHALLENGE THAT INDIAN MEN FACE
Not being able to give fitness enough time is the biggest shortcoming we face. Also, people often fail to understand the importance of cardiovascular exercises, and instead focus only on building bulk; but the amount of weight that you lift is not directly proportional to the strength you have. Your body cannot be termed "strong," just because you lift heavy weights. Also, it's important to break out of your comfort zone and bring in variation from time to time.
FOOD IS OFTEN A KILLJOY. HOW TOUGH IS IT TO MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES?
Your diet forms 40 per cent part of what you do and the remaining 60, is your training. Your body is a machine and it will only run according to the fuel you put into it. You need to know how much proteins, carbohydrates, fats and minerals you need to consume. And, if you don't, then you need to read up and understand what your body really needs. Most gyms today have an in-house dietition to guide what, and how much quantity should be consumed as per an individuals body type. Also when you eat (i.e. the meal timing) plays a huge role. Also eating every two to three hours is the basic rule that you should follow, as that's the only way to keep your basal metabolic (BMR) rate high.
HOW DOES A TESTOSTERONE-CHARGED ALPHA MALE DEAL WITH COMPETITION?
I try to not think about it. My focus is on being better each day; if I can be better than my own self, then I think I am already on my way up. Thinking about competition means wasting your time and energy on wondering who's doing what. Instead, if you concentrate on what you need to do and how you can improve, that will bring you closer to your set goals.
RISKS OFTEN COME WITH SETBACKS, HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THE LATTER?
If I'm really happy, I go the gym and workout and if I'm really upset, I do the same. It's a good way to put all your thoughts and energy in the direction that can be beneficial for you in the long run. If you're going through something or dealing with a difficult situation, it's okay to not shove it under the carpet but just not thinking about it, doesn't stop the negative thoughts. Get the situation under control, channel that energy and use it in the gym. This also has a scientific explanation to it: When you workout, endorphins are released in your brain and you feel happier.
WHAT SCORES MORE, STAMINA OR SIX-PACK?
A six-pack is a by-product, and if you're really aiming at being fit, your fat percentage will automatically be low and your abs are going to show, irrespective. And, even if they don't, it does not make you any less fit. Being fit and looking fit are two different things. You can look chiselled, but be completely opposite on the inside. Your aim should be to be fit. But, if you aim at just looking good, it won't last because the inside will give up. Sporting a six-pack is definitely not the parameter to judge one's fitness.
HOW MUCH STYLE IS TOO MUCH STYLE FOR A MAN?
It's about how comfortable you are in your own skin, and how comfortable you are with what you are wearing. If you're trying too hard, then it will show, so just be who you are and don't try to be what you're not. However, accessorizing your attire is a good option, but don't go overboard with it. Also, if you want to know when you're doing too much, it's always wise to simply follow your instincts.
