Before he became a symbol of fitness dedication in Bollywood, Arjun Kapoor's life was defined by a very different struggle. In the years leading up to his 2012 debut, the actor grappled with significant extra weight, persistent low energy, and a crippling lack of confidence. His remarkable transformation, shedding nearly 50 kilograms before starring in 'Ishaqzaade', stands as a powerful testament to how consistent daily habits, ironclad discipline, and simple efforts can rewrite one's life story.
The Simple Power of Walking: Arjun Kapoor's Trusted Exercise
Arjun Kapoor's physical change was not a quick fix. The actor has openly shared that this profound journey took him approximately 15 months to achieve his primary goals. Central to his routine was a deceptively simple activity: walking. This is a practice he has believed in since childhood.
In a past conversation with ETimes, Kapoor explained the foundational role walking played. He stated that even as an overweight child, he held the conviction that "there's nothing better than walking." This belief stayed with him into adulthood. "Even today, when I want to lose weight, I just keep in mind to get out there and walk. Just be physically active," he advised, adding that one cannot expect results while being sedentary and complaining.
This consistent habit of walking helped him maintain daily activity long before he committed to a structured gym regimen, laying the crucial groundwork for his later fitness.
A Foodie's Transformation: Cutting Out Junk Completely
Arjun Kapoor has described himself as a natural food enthusiast. However, when he decided to get serious about his health, he made a decisive shift. He completely eliminated junk food from his life, along with practices like overeating. Sugary items and high-carbohydrate foods were also avoided.
His new dietary focus centered on fresh vegetables, fruits, and meals rich in protein to sustain his energy and health. A glimpse into his daily eating plan, once shared on Instagram, revealed a structured yet balanced approach. His day began with a high-protein breakfast, typically eggs, followed by his first gym session.
Lunch around 1:30 PM often consisted of a Greek Souvlaki Wrap. His afternoons were dedicated to work. For an evening snack, he opted for protein and fibre-rich Turkey Sushi to fuel his second workout. Dinner featured Turkish kebabs accompanied by muhammara sauce, mint chutney, and pickled vegetables. This routine provided the necessary nutrition without feeling overly restrictive, aiding his consistency.
Battling Health Challenges: The Hashimoto's Diagnosis
In 2024, Arjun Kapoor revealed a significant health hurdle that made his fitness journey even more challenging. He was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition that attacks the thyroid gland, slows down metabolism, and promotes weight gain.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter India, he shared the impact of this condition. "I can take a flight and gain weight because the body goes into distress... your body is in fight-or-flight mode," he explained. He noted that the diagnosis came around the time he was 30 years old, and he recognized it as a condition his mother, Mona Shourie Kapoor, and sister, Anshula Kapoor, also had.
Reflecting on the past decade, Kapoor connected his physical changes with the progression of his films and the personal trauma of managing this health issue, showcasing his resilience in the face of a biological disadvantage.
Arjun Kapoor's story powerfully demonstrates that sustainable habits—regular walking, clean eating, and dedicated exercise—can yield extraordinary results, even alongside health obstacles. On the professional front, he was last seen in 'Mere Husband Ki Biwi' with Bhumi Pednekar and Rakul Preet Singh. Fans can next see him in the much-anticipated sequel 'No Entry 2', directed by Anees Bazmee, where he will share the screen with Varun Dhawan.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor or qualified health professional before starting any diet or exercise programme.
