Fitness

Saqib’s Fitness Tale

Fitness has always been a crucial aspect of Saqib Ayub’s life, complementing his versatile acting career. Best known for his compelling portrayals in projects like ‘Farzi,’ ‘She,’ and ‘Brahmastra,’ Saqib now takes on a challenging antagonist role in ‘Love Adhura,’ currently streaming on Amazon Mini TV. In this series, he embodies the character of Prakash, a complex and menacing psychopath who thrives on chaos and destruction, opposite Karan Kundra and Erica Fernandes. Despite the demanding nature of his roles, Saqib maintains a disciplined approach to his fitness regimen, ensuring he’s always ready to embrace the diverse characters he portrays. Discover Saqib’s fitness journey in discussion with Surabhi Goel.

Many of your fans admire your fit body. What are your top fitness tips for staying motivated and consistent with workouts?

Staying motivated and consistent with workouts is essential; it’s about having a routine. Motivation comes from within, driven by a desire to achieve. Following a daily routine, even amidst work commitments, ensures consistency. It becomes a habit; missing a gym session feels off. Even during shoots, I carve out time for a workout. Physical transformations for roles depend on the character’s demands and the time frame provided by the production team and director. It’s about supporting the character with the knowledge and effort needed, whether it’s in the gym or elsewhere.

Could you describe your typical fitness routine? What types of exercises or workouts do you enjoy the most?

My typical fitness routine consists of working out at least five to six days a week. This includes an hour of weight training, 30 minutes of cardio, and 15 to 20 minutes of core exercises. I vary my workouts by targeting single body parts, double body parts, and sometimes triple body parts. Additionally, I enjoy incorporating football into my routine on certain days as a form of cardio, adding variety and enjoyment to my workouts.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in fitness. Can you share some insights into your daily diet and any specific dietary preferences or tips you follow?

In my daily diet, I prioritize incorporating salads into both my meals. I consume around 400 grams of salad daily, split between two meals. Before lunch and dinner, I have about 200 grams of salad each time, followed by a 20-minute break before my main meal. My meals typically consist of a balanced combination of protein and carbohydrates. This routine helps ensure that I maintain a nutritious diet throughout the day, providing ample fuel for my fitness regimen.

What advice do you have for individuals aspiring to achieve a healthy and fit lifestyle, especially those new to fitness?

My advice for those aiming for a healthy lifestyle is to prioritize balance. While occasional indulgence is acceptable, it’s crucial to maintain equilibrium. Your body is your most valuable asset, so take care of it by balancing indulgence with healthy choices. Aim for adequate sleep, around 6 to 8 hours per night, and establish a consistent daily routine. This includes regular mealtimes to keep your body’s rhythm stable. Consistency is vital in fitness, so find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s gym workouts, running, swimming, or anything else, and stick with it. Maintaining balance, consistency, and finding joy in your fitness journey is vital to a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.

Proper hydration is essential for maintaining balance and consistency in your lifestyle. Nutritionists recommend consuming 2 to 3 litres of water daily. However, individual needs may vary, so listen to your body’s cues. Keeping a bottle of water by your bedside can help you stay hydrated throughout the day, preventing dehydration and supporting overall well-being.

Maintaining a balanced diet can be a struggle for many. Could you share some of your favourite healthy recipes or snacks that help you stay on track with your fitness goals?

Maintaining a balanced diet is essential for staying on track with fitness goals. For my lunches, I prepare a hearty salad consisting of grated and boiled cucumber, carrot, beetroot, broccoli, onion, capsicum, flax, chia, and pumpkin seeds. I prefer minimal sauces, but feel free to customize to your taste. Alongside, I enjoy a bowl of flavourful Tadke Wali Dal for protein, sometimes accompanied by marinated chicken or steamed fish. Marination allows for versatility in flavour; I often experiment with different spices or yogurt-based marinades to enhance taste without compromising health. I pair this with multigrain bhakri of Jawar and Bajra or brown rice for carbohydrates. To aid digestion, I finish my meal with a glass of buttermilk, helping to regulate body heat.

Lastly, what projects or goals are you working on in your acting career and fitness journey that you’d like to share with your fans and followers?

I eagerly anticipate the release of my next film, ‘Superman of Malegaon,’ shot by Excel Entertainment and directed by Reema Kagti. Additionally, I have several upcoming shows with Applause Entertainment, although details are yet to be revealed. On the fitness front, I’m currently fasting for Ramadan and am excited to see how my body adapts once it concludes. I aim to build muscle mass while maintaining a lean physique, leveraging the post-fast period for optimal gains due to heightened metabolism. I aim to regain lost muscle mass and achieve a balanced physique with a defined muscle tone.

Quick takes-

Who are your favourite male and female actors with what you consider the perfect physique, and what do you admire most about their dedication to fitness?

My favourite male actor with the perfect physique is Hrithik Roshan; his dedication to fitness is unparalleled, evident in his sculpted physique and role versatility. Similarly, Deepika Padukone is my favourite female actor with a fit body, showcasing a commitment to health and fitness. Additionally, I admire Christian Bale for his transformative performances, displaying remarkable dedication to altering his physique to embody diverse characters.

What activities do you find most calming and relaxing?

Maintaining mental well-being is crucial, and I have a few go-to methods for destressing. Firstly, hitting the gym is my therapy, providing a calming and relaxing outlet. Additionally, I find solace in reading a good book, spending quality time with close friends, sharing laughter, and enjoying meals together. Watching a captivating film or indulging in a good night’s sleep also helps me unwind. I cherish moments of tranquillity, like savouring a coffee in silence while observing nature or taking a midnight stroll to clear my mind. These small yet meaningful activities are essential for relaxation and balance in our fast-paced digital world.

We all experience stress from time to time. Can you share some of your go-to methods or activities for destressing and maintaining mental well-being?

When it comes to destressing and maintaining mental well-being, my top choice is engaging in physical activity, whether hitting the gym, playing sports like football or badminton, or simply going for a jog. Sweating it out and challenging my muscles always leaves me feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Additionally, I find it helpful to categorize my thoughts and not fixate on stressors I can’t immediately solve. Taking breaks and engaging in activities like reading, watching movies, spending time with friends, junking, or having good food are also effective ways to unwind and practice self-love. Ultimately, allowing myself to take a step back and relax is essential for managing stress effectively.

Who is your favourite fitness idol, and why?

I don’t have a specific fitness idol, but I admire individuals like Arnold Schwarzenegger for his enduring commitment to fitness, even in his later years. While he’s primarily known as a bodybuilder, I respect his dedication to maintaining his health and physique over time. Similarly, I look up to Chris Heria, whose workout tips and tricks I regularly follow on YouTube. Another figure I admire in the fitness industry was Greg Plitt, whose contributions were significant before his untimely passing.

Do you love traveling, and which is your favourite destination?

I love traveling! It’s not just about exploring new places; it’s also a crucial aspect of destressing and rejuvenating. I make it a point to plan a trip every 3 to 4 months to unwind and recharge. My favourite destinations include Kerala, Goa, Himachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. Additionally, I’m eager to explore more of the Northeast region of India in the future.

April 30, 2024

#Celebrity, fitness

Yoga vs. Pilates: What Works Better for the Digital-Age Spine?

Introduction: We live in an era of screens. From remote work to binge-watching, our spines are silently bearing the burden of our digital lives. Neck stiffness, back pain, poor posture, and compressed discs are now common across all age groups. But amidst this modern-day strain, two movement systems Yoga and Pilates are gaining ground as effective solutions. So, what works best for your digital-age spine? Hashtag magazine gives you an overview… The Digital Spine Problem Text neck. Rounded shoulders. Slouched lower back. The prolonged hours we spend hunched over devices disrupt the natural curvature of the spine. This leads to muscle imbalances, reduced flexibility, chronic tension, and even nerve compression over time. What we need today is more than just exercise; we need restorative movement, spinal alignment, and deep core engagement. Yoga: Flexibility Meets Awareness What It Does for Your Spine: Improves posture through poses like Tadasana, Bhujangasana (cobra), and downward dog Increases spinal flexibility and length through stretches and backbends Encourages mindful movement and body awareness, helping you notice slouching and misalignment in daily life Breathwork (pranayama) and meditation reduce stress, which often causes physical tension in the neck and shoulders What to Watch Out For: Without proper guidance, deep backbends or twists may aggravate pre-existing disc issues Some styles (like power yoga) may not focus enough on core strength, which is key to spinal support Pilates: Core-Centric Control What It Does for Your Spine: Strengthens the deep core muscles (transversus abdominis, pelvic floor) that stabilise the spine Focuses on neutral spine alignment crucial for those who sit for hours Builds muscle endurance and control around the lumbar and thoracic spine Gentle, low-impact, and highly structured ideal for those with back pain, disc issues, or postural strain What to Watch Out For: May feel repetitive or mechanical for those

Fitness

Vipassana Meditation: The Path to Inner Clarity and Peace

Introduction: In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, true silence and stillness have become rare luxuries. But centuries ago, a powerful method of self-transformation was discovered, one that involves no rituals, no chanting, and no belief systems. This is Vipassana, one of the most ancient meditation techniques in India, rediscovered and popularised by S.N. Goenka. It is not just a practice but a deep mental training designed to purify the mind and reveal the nature of reality. Hashtag Magazine gives you a lowdown… What is Vipassana? Vipassana means “to see things as they really are.”It is a form of insight meditation that involves observing your thoughts, bodily sensations, and breath, without reaction or judgment. Practitioners learn to watch their inner experiences with equanimity, breaking the automatic cycle of craving and aversion that leads to suffering. Vipassana is traditionally taught in 10-day silent residential courses, offered in centres worldwide, free of charge. Core Principles of Vipassana Anicca (Impermanence): Everything is constantly changing. Dukkha (Suffering): Clinging to impermanent things causes suffering. Anatta (Non-self): There is no permanent “I” or ego. By deeply observing these truths within one’s own body and mind, one begins to detach from emotional reactivity and experience lasting peace. Benefits of Vipassana Meditation 1. Mental Clarity & Focus Vipassana sharpens awareness and reduces mental noise, allowing practitioners to stay focused and present. 2. Emotional Balance Regular practice helps you respond to challenges calmly rather than react impulsively. This emotional intelligence benefits relationships and daily decision-making. 3. Stress & Anxiety Reduction By observing sensations instead of resisting them, Vipassana breaks the cycle of stress and fear. Many report deep inner calm after courses. 4. Deep Self-Awareness You develop profound insight into your own patterns thoughts, habits, and emotions helping you understand and ultimately transform them. 5. Increased Compassion & Patience As the

Fitness

Top Fitness Snacks That Fuel Without the Guilt

In today’s fast-paced world, we often find ourselves reaching for convenient snacks that are quick but not necessarily healthy. However, snacking doesn’t have to be detrimental to your fitness goals. The right snacks can provide essential nutrients, promote recovery, and keep you energised throughout the day. The key is choosing nutrient-dense foods that fuel your body, improve performance, and satisfy your cravings without the guilt. Hashtag Magazine covers some of the best fitness snacks, their benefits, and a delicious recipe to try! Benefits of Fitness Snacks Top Fitness Snacks That Fuel Without the Guilt Protein-Packed Snacks Fiber + Complex Carb Combos Low-Calorie, High-Nutrient Options On-the-Go Clean Snacks Post-Workout Refueling Ideas Conclusion Healthy snacks are an essential part of any fitness routine. They not only curb hunger but also fuel your workouts and promote recovery. By choosing snacks that are rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, you’re giving your body the nutrients it needs to perform at its best. From Greek yogurt with berries to homemade protein bites, the options are endless. The best part? These snacks won’t leave you feeling guilty. They’re designed to nourish your body while satisfying your taste buds — all without the unnecessary additives and empty calories of processed snacks. Make these snacks a part of your routine, and feel the difference in your energy levels, performance, and overall well-being!

Fitness

Health Tests and Multivitamins Every Woman Should Know About

Crossing 40 is a major milestone, and it comes with wisdom, strength—and some necessary self-care upgrades. As metabolism slows and hormone levels shift, your body demands a more personalized fitness and nutrition plan. Regular health screenings, mindful fitness routines, and the right multivitamins can make all the difference in keeping you energized, balanced, and glowing. Here’s Hashtag magazine’s essential guide to staying strong and healthy in your 40s and beyond. Health Tests Every Woman Over 40 Should Prioritize 1. Hormonal Panel 2. Vitamin D and B12 Levels 3. Bone Density Scan (DEXA) 4. Lipid Profile & Blood Sugar Test 5. Mammogram and Pap Smear 6. Thyroid Function Test Fitness Focus: What Changes After 40? As you age, lean muscle mass decreases, and fat metabolism slows. Prioritizing strength, balance, and mobility can help. Ideal Fitness Plan for Women Over 40: Best Multivitamins & Supplements for Women Over 40 As your body changes, nutritional needs shift too. Here are some must-haves: 1. Calcium with Vitamin D3 2. Magnesium 3. Vitamin B12 4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA) 5. Collagen + Vitamin C 6. Probiotics 7. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) Final Tips: Takeaway Fitness after 40 isn’t about chasing your 20s—it’s about embracing a stronger, wiser version of yourself. With the right fitness plan, regular health checks, and powerful micronutrient support, your 40s can be your fittest decade yet!