“GRACEFULL & GOREGEOUS” Issue with KRISHNA SHROFF
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH KRISHNA SHROFF
1. How did you first get interested in fitness, and what inspired you to pursue it as a serious passion? I was always an active kid growing up, playing all sports and captaining various of my school teams (Football, basketball, and volleyball). However, I never stepped foot into a gym until about 6.5 years ago. I was going through something at the time that made me feel lost, and through that, I decided I had to do something transformational in my life and for myself. That’s when I began my fitness journey and there’s been no looking back ever since. 2. Being part of the Shroff family, which has a significant presence in Bollywood, how do you balance your own identity and pursuits with the family's legacy? Fitness has given me just that—an identity away from who everyone, expected me to be, and what they expected me to do. I’ll forever be grateful for it, because through fitness, people are able to relate to me through their journeys, because they’re usually very similar to mine and where I started from. I’m so thankful to have found fitness because now, I get to do what I love every single day. Life is too short not to do just that. 3. Your fitness routines and workouts seem very intense. Could you share some insights into your training philosophy and approach to staying fit? Everyone says that, but honestly, I’m a firm believer in balance. It’s also very important to listen to your body. I’m not the most regiment person. Consistency is key, but you’re not going to feel 100% to push 100% everyday. Listen to what your body is telling you and you’ll have longevity in your fitness journey. I like to make sure I get some movement in every single day; however, my ideal training regime would be a weight training split, throughout the week followed by a light cardio session (usually a brisk walk) every evening. I like to begin my days with strength training, as it sets a super positive tone to the rest of my day, and gets me ready to face any challenges the day throws at me. 4.Many people struggle to maintain a consistent fitness routine. What advice do you have for those who find it challenging to stay motivated? At the end of the day, motivation doesn’t mean anything without discipline. Discipline will get the job done even when you don’t want to. Discipline is the key factor that sets one apart from everyone else, by getting them a step further every single day. 5.Given your background, do you feel any pressure to conform to certain expectations, in the entertainment industry? How do you navigate these expectations while staying true to yourself? Growing up, I definitely felt a lot of pressure to follow, my family’s footsteps into the film industry. That pressure never came from home, but everyone on the outside didn’t quite understand why, I didn’t want to do what was so easily accessible for me, in a world that so many people wish to be a part of. I’ve always been a firm believer of following your passion. When you do what you truly love, there’s longevity in that. Life is too short to wake up everyday dreading your day ahead, so stay grounded, be kind, and do what you love to the best of your capabilities in order to reach your goals. 6.Bollywood often places a spotlight on appearances. How do you encourage body positivity and self-acceptance within your fitness journey? 6. It’s important to remember not to compare yourself to what you see online. People are only putting the absolute, best versions of themselves out there for the world to see. Fitness is a game of trial and error, so what works for me might not work for someone else. Don’t be afraid to take those risks and see what works best for YOU. Everyone’s journey and timeline is different… You’re unique. Embrace it. 7.Can you share a memorable experience or achievement, from your fitness journey that has had a significant impact on your perspective? People work for recognition. That’s a huge driving factor for most people; however, apart from the numerous awards, I’ve been recognised with for my contribution, to the health and fitness movement within our country, it’s the fact that I’ve been able to connect with so many people from all over the world, through my journey who have reached out to me telling me that, I’ve helped them make a positive switch in their lives and begin their own wellness journey. That’s a very satisfying feeling and one that I’m super proud of. 8.With your passion for fitness and wellness, do you have any plans to contribute to social causes or use your platform to raise awareness about important health-related issues? Absolutely. As much as I can, and to the best of my capabilities, I’ll always try to use my voice to help people be more aware, show them the changes they can make to improve their lifestyles, and try my best to lead by example. 9.Balancing a healthy lifestyle with a busy schedule can be tough. What are your go-to strategies for maintaining your fitness routine during hectic times? People that say they don’t have time to train are honestly, in my opinion, weak. Everyone has the same 24 hours in a day and what’s 45 minutes to an hour out of that to invest in yourself? All the fame, money, and material people chase won’t matter without their health. It’s 100% worth prioritising and investing time in to then enjoy the finer things in life. Other than that, there are numerous healthy alternative swaps when it comes to nutrition now, so it’s just about having the discipline and willpower to take charge of those decisions for yourself. I personally just don’t see this specific thing as a valid excuse. 10.Who or what has been your biggest source of support or inspiration in your fitness journey? When I had initially began my journey, I was (and still am) extremely inspired by my brother, Tiger. Growing up with him really pushed me to always try harder and be better. However, at this point in my journey, I can honestly say I’ve become my own biggest inspiration. This journey is not one that can be given or bought. It’s earned by your own hard work and discipline every single day and through every single choice you make throughout your days. It’s a lifestyle and I’m proud of the changes I’ve been able to make. Seeing how far I’m able to push myself both physically and mentally to progress week by week is extremely motivating to keep pushing forward. 11.As a role model to many, especially young women, how do you aim to influence and inspire them through your fitness and lifestyle choices? I believe the supporters I’ve been able to obtain while still keeping away from the limelight, is purely through being unapologetically my truest and most authentic self. That’s helped people relate to me and my journey and understand the fact that their goals are just as attainable. It’s a tough world, especially as a woman, and I want to be able to help inspire women to be comfortable being their most true selves without the worry of judgement of other people. I want them to understand that someone’s opinion about you doesn’t make it a reality. I urge everyone to take up fitness if they haven’t, already because the self assurance and confidence it instils in you is like nothing else. 12.Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations within the realm of fitness and well-being, both personally and professionally? Honestly, it’s such a win for me when, I receive messages on Instagram from people all over the world expressing the fact that my journey has inspired or motivated them in some way. It really makes me believe I’m on the right path. At the end of the day, I always say your health is truly your wealth and nothing in this world matters without it, so if I can help someone begin their journey to lead a better lifestyle and make those positive/healthy changes for the betterment of themselves, I’m happy with just that.