If I don't exercise, I become cranky: Arjun Chakrabarty

A fitness freak, Tolly young gun Arjun Chakrabarty opens up on what he does to stay in shape
Tell us about your training schedule. What activities have you undertaken to remain fit?
I am a fitness freak. If I don't exercise four times a week, I become cranky . It is completely baseless when people ask you to stay away from certain foods to remain in shape. All you need to do is eat in moderation, cut down on the carbohydrate intake and include more proteins in your diet. I generally work out in the mornings for a good two hours.

That's usually the routine six days a week. But if I am too busy with my shooting schedule, I hit the gym on at least four days. I enjoy lifting weights and hardly use machines. I concentrate more on compound movements. That apart, I am a sportsperson, so I enjoy playing outdoor games, which also helps me stay in shape.My warm-up exercises include dynamic movements with light weights as I don't believe in the concept of running on the treadmill as a start to your workout routine. Squats, dead-lifts, jumps, crunches, ab exercises, burpees are a must for me. I prefer to work out in a group as that gives me added energy . The easiest and the most effective way to burn fat is by doing burpees, so it is a must-do on my list of workouts. Swimming too is a good exercise and I plan to take it up in the coming summer.

Tell us about your diet.
I start my day with a cup of green tea at 7.30 am, followed by a heavy breakfast comprising two toasts, three poached eggs and fruits. Post exercise, I take a glass of protein shake and one banana. I generally have six to seven eggs every day as it is high on protein. Lunch, for me, is simple; it includes a very small portion of rice, dal, sabzi and fish. If I feel hungry in the evenings, I have some dry fruits. I go for a light dinner and generally have two rotis, sabzi and chicken stew. I eat almost everything, but never overeat. Also, I stay away from carbs and concentrate heavily on the nutritional value of foods.

Do you have cheat days?
Yes I do, in terms of food, not workouts. During the festive season, we all tend to eat more and I am no exception. And with New Year just round the corner, indulging on savouries is a must. Likewise, having sweets is mandatory during Durga Puja.

Do you have an idol in terms of fitness?
My fitness trainer and friend, Vinit Baptist, is someone I really look up to. He is passionate about both workouts and nutrition and inspires me a great deal. He is younger to me, but I am amazed by his dedication. I follow him blindly . That apart, I love Vidyut Jamwal's physique, which speaks a lot about his overall health and wellness.