Puneet Issar, who recently turned 60, feels it is a myth that people should not train in the gym after a certain age. The actor, who has played the iconic role of Duryodhan in BR Chopra's Mahabharat, shares how he had to maintain a good physique from a very young age. And the actor has continued training in the gym ever since.
He says, "It is a misconception that after you reach a certain age, you should not go to the gym or exercise. If the doctor permits, one should regularly visit the gym and do weight training too because it helps in muscle building and the health of your bones. I regularly do weight training in the gym for around 2 hours even after crossing 60 years of age. It is important to exercise and look after your health after you reach a certain age. When you bring a brand new car, it does not require any servicing for a year, but as you keep using it, the servicing becomes frequent. Similarly, health has to be the one big priority in life as you age and become older. Your body needs movement and strength from time to time. Basically, you should follow a routine that your doctor allows you to."
Besides, working out in the gym, Issar also indulges in cardio vascular exercise twice or thrice a week. He says, "In addition to my gym routine, I jog for 8-10 kms in the evening near my home. It is a slow jog initially and then I start running at a medium pace. I feel energetic and good after it. When I don't feel like jogging, I do martial arts at home, I have 3 garages, which are converted into a gym and I do my martial arts training in there."
The actor who has been a part of a number of films over the years, believes in following a healthy diet. He says, "I don't believe in cutting down on my food intake. I enjoy eating ragi roti, sabji, dal and salad. In the afternoon I eat nuts and evenings I avoid carbs. I mostly eat fish or salad. I avoid sugar and salt."
On the work front, Issar has been busy with plays and films. He says, "I am happy that I am getting to work in interesting films and people are enjoying my plays, too. Currently I am working on a play based on Ramayan."
