Achieving Fitness: Insights from Deepika Padukone's Lifestyle

I don't really like the word diet because it feels kind of restrictive; I prefer to call it smart eating,” says Yasmin Karachiwala, the fitness trainer of Deepika Padukone.

Deepika Padukone, one of Bollywood's leading actresses, is often said to have a body that's simply “to die for.”

But let's be honest, maintaining such a fantastic physique is no walk in the park. Yet, it's definitely achievable for anyone willing to put in the effort. Deepika's fitness regime proves that a combination of dedication and commitment is really all it takes. Research indicates that adopting a health-promoting lifestyle, which includes balanced nutrition and regular physical activity, significantly enhances overall well-being and subjective health status, making it a sustainable choice for many individuals seeking fitness goals ^[1].

Interestingly, Deepika is also one of the biggest foodies in Bollywood. She once casually mentioned that she doesn't just have a sweet tooth; all her teeth are sweet! So, she doesn't completely suppress her cravings. So how does she manage to keep that goddess-like appearance?

Here's a sneak peek into her fitness routine.

Diet Regime:
Deepika's breakfast usually includes a glass of low-fat milk with egg whites or some delicious South Indian dishes like idly or upma. For lunch, while she occasionally opts for home-made dal and rotis, she mainly enjoys grilled fish and veggies almost every day. Her snacks consist of nuts and dried fruits, and she loves filter coffee during snack time. At dinner, she avoids rice and typically opts for a green salad, rotis, and fruits. Sometimes, she indulges in a few pieces of dark chocolate for dessert to satisfy her sweet cravings.

Throughout the day, she munches on fruits and drinks juices. Staying hydrated is crucial for her fitness. Even on hectic shoot days, she ensures she doesn't skip meals. Every two to three hours, she hydrates with juices, coconut water, or buttermilk. This keeps her cells active and boosts her metabolic rate. The key? She neither overeats nor deprives herself. The importance of hydration is further supported by studies showing that adequate fluid intake is vital for maintaining optimal physiological functions, especially during physical activity ^[4].

Workout Regime:
Deepika's fitness routine combines yoga, pilates, weights, and dance. She kicks off her day with various yogic practices, including the twelve steps of suryanamaskar, sarvangasana, and virabhadrasana. She also never skips pranayama, which aids in detoxifying her body and enhances concentration, keeping her energized throughout the day. Research has shown that yoga practices, including pranayama, can significantly improve respiratory function and overall quality of life, adding to the physical and mental benefits of her fitness routine ^[3].

Pilates focuses on flexibility, muscular strength, and endurance movements. Deepika was introduced to pilates by her trainer Yasmin Karachiwala. According to Yasmin, pilates and stretching have worked wonders in strengthening her core, enhancing her flexibility, and improving her posture. Studies have demonstrated that Pilates can also positively impact functional movement and individual health levels, making it an effective exercise modality ^[2].

She works out daily and keeps her weight training minimal. The secret to her fitness? A mix of exercises that makes her workout routine enjoyable. Research indicates that enjoyment in exercise can lead to better adherence and results, promoting a sustainable fitness lifestyle ^[5].

“You need to eat and eat right to stay fit,” says Pooja Makhija, Deepika's nutritionist. So, maintaining a balanced diet along with a consistent workout routine is all it takes to achieve a fit and healthy body, with a lot of commitment to the regimen delivering the physique of your dreams.