By Nitesh Kripalani
Executive Vice President, New Media, Business Development and Digital/Syndication at Sony Entertainment Network
My work is my passion and I would not trade my job for any other. But there is no denying that my work profile is rather demanding. An optimal fitness regime enables me to keep mind and body in peak condition, and my creativity brimming.
A typical day at work entails staring at the computer, the phone or tablet for around 12 hours, travelling, rushing to and from business meetings and checking mails and messages in between. My work involves a lot of brain-storming, ideating, creative thinking and decision making.
A good workout in the morning helps me go about daily tasks with fresh zeal and vigour, and stay at the top of my game.
I have always been a fitness fanatic and make it a point to keep altering my workouts and bringing in new activities, to give the body new challenges and keep me motivated. For the past nine years, I have been a regular squash player.
There was a time when I used to play five to six times a week. During my stay in London, I was literally addicted to Turf Football, and spent every Wednesday sweating it out on these artificial pitches. I feel playing a sport that one really enjoys is the best way to stay fit. Even now I make it a point to include squash at least twice a week in my overall plan.
My workout typically consists of a 30 or 40-minute jog outdoors, as the fresh early morning air does wonders for the body and mind.
Weight training is essential for strength building and for keeping the kilos at bay. I try to incorporate high-intensity interval training into my daily workouts, which keeps the body’s metabolic rate high, without overburdening the muscles with weight lifting.
I suffered a back injury recently, so I had to slow down on heavy weights. But Yoga and Pilates have helped greatly, as these activities target holistic wellness by strengthening one’s core. Flexibility, lean muscles, better sleep, improved posture and greater agility are some of the many positive effects I have personally experienced. Yoga also helps with fitness of the mind, which is most essential to remain calm and creative in today’s fast-paced world. I feel a good fitness regime that is based on not just regular exercise, but also peace of mind, healthy food and good habits, gives you greater energy to accomplish what you are most passionate about. Obviously, if you look better and fitter, you make a great first impression on anyone you meet – whether personally or professionally. You also start looking better and feeling good about yourself.
For me, giving time to myself to reflect and to relax is very important, no matter how busy I may be. From nine to nine, my time is devoted to work and professional demands. A good, healthy start keeps my concentration levels high throughout the day and prevents burn-outs.
Work and fitness are what I love with equal passion. There is no choosing one over the other; the two complement each other. A good fitness regimen keeps me focused, motivated and geared towards my goals.
Feedback: niteshk@setindia.com
