Jharkhand's Veteran Powerlifting Champion Shares Five Decades of Fitness Wisdom
In an exclusive conversation with Dhrubajyoti Malakar, Indrajeet Singh, the 72-year-old multi-time international powerlifting champion from Jharkhand, has revealed crucial insights from his extensive five-decade journey in fitness. The seasoned athlete, who has clinched numerous championships globally, provides valuable guidance for fitness enthusiasts navigating today's crowded training landscape.
The Right Age to Begin Fitness Training
Indrajeet Singh emphasizes that fitness training can safely commence after 13-14 years of age. Before reaching this milestone, rigorous training is not advisable. However, children can engage in light exercises such as running, walking, and free-hand movements to build foundational habits. "There is no upper age limit for continuing with fitness training," Singh notes, adding that individuals can pursue it as long as they feel comfortable and capable.
Navigating the Proliferation of Fitness Centers
With fitness centers mushrooming across Jharkhand and beyond, Singh offers targeted advice for enthusiasts. He categorizes gym-goers into two groups: those seeking general fitness and those aiming for professional careers in bodybuilding or powerlifting. For the former, he recommends sticking to simple training routines like treadmill running or weightlifting within personal limits. Singh strongly cautions against relying on YouTube videos for beginners, as these are often tailored for advanced trainers and can lead to improper techniques or injuries.
"Enthusiasts must ensure training under the supervision of a qualified trainer," he insists. Addressing a growing concern, Singh warns against the use of steroids and energy drinks by those pursuing competitive careers. He highlights that such substances, while offering quick results, significantly increase the risk of developing serious ailments later in life.
Identifying a Qualified Trainer
Singh acknowledges the challenge of finding a competent trainer amid the surge of fitness centers. "That's tough work," he admits, pointing out that many unqualified trainers with minimal experience are operating these facilities. A reliable trainer, according to Singh, focuses on building physical strength through foundational free-hand exercises like squats, pulling and pushing movements, and push-ups. "A good trainer will habituate the person with the routine before progressing to heavy exercises," he explains, stressing the importance of a gradual, supervised approach.
The Role of Routine and Diet
Discipline is paramount for everyone, not just fitness trainers, Singh asserts. He advocates for a healthy sleep cycle, avoidance of junk food, and consumption of adequate fruits and vegetables. For personalized guidance, he suggests consulting trainers for customised diet plans that align with individual fitness goals.
Addressing Workout-Related Fatalities
Recent incidents of deaths during workouts have raised alarms, and Singh identifies key causes. He attributes many such tragedies to the consumption of medicines and steroids for muscle gain. When the body fails to absorb these substances, it can lead to dangerously increased blood pressure, resulting in fatalities. Additionally, pushing beyond one's strength limits during exercise can have deadly consequences. Singh urges moderation and professional oversight to curb these preventable accidents.
Through his decades of experience, Indrajeet Singh's advice serves as a timely reminder for fitness enthusiasts to prioritize safety, proper guidance, and holistic health over quick fixes.
