Virat Kohli: Well-balanced diet is my top fitness priority, but that comes with indulging in chole bhature when the chance comes

Kohli says through the numerous challenges he has faced in his long career, he has learnt the importance of self-belief and staying true to himself.

"When it comes to training, I believe in pushing myself to the limit," says Kohli. (Source: Virat Kohli/Instagram)

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Cricketer Virat Kohli says a well-balanced diet with the right mix of nutrients and proteins was top priority for him to stay energised and ready for the physical demands of training and matches. Kohli, who recently became the brand ambassador of eyecare brand Essilor, told indianexpress.com, “Fitness has always been a top priority for me. It is not just about being a professional athlete — it is also about leading a healthy and fulfilling life. My fitness routine is quite comprehensive, and I make sure to dedicate time every day to stay in top condition.”

“When it comes to training, I believe in pushing myself to the limit. I engage in a combination of strength training, agility drills, and endurance exercises. It’s all about building a strong foundation to handle the challenges of the game and stay injury-free,” he explains. “Of course, rest and recovery are equally crucial. Giving my body enough time to recover from intense training sessions is essential for peak performance. So, I make sure to get enough sleep and listen to my body’s needs.”

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But this does not mean that he will let go of a fulfilling plate of chole bhature when the opportunity comes. “Yes, I do enjoy good food, and I must admit, being a Punjabi, I have a soft spot for some delicious and hearty dishes. Chole bhature is an all-time favourite for me and whenever I have the chance, I indulge in a fulfilling plate of chole bhature.” This is where he underlines the importance of “maintaining a balanced diet” to support his fitness and performance on the field. “So, while I do treat myself to such dishes occasionally, I make sure to follow a strict diet to stay in shape.”

Kohli says he prioritises self-care and well-being as an integral part of his daily routine. “I engage in regular workouts, meditation, and mindfulness practices to keep my mind and body in sync.” Physical activity, he says, not only helps his stay fit but also acts as a great stress reliever. “Additionally, spending quality time with my loved ones is vital for me to unwind and find emotional support.”

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Kohli remembers how he has faced numerous challenges and obstacles throughout his long career. “But what has truly defined me as a person is my ability to stay resilient and keep pushing forward, no matter how difficult the circumstances.” He says another important aspect he has learnt is the “importance of self-belief and staying true to myself”. “People will always have opinions and judgments, but I have learned to trust my instincts and have confidence in my abilities. This self-belief has been the driving force behind all my achievements on the cricket field.”

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Ups and downs are a part of any sport and Kohli says this is when he reminds himself of his “capabilities and the hard work I have put in to reach where I have”. “This self-belief helps me stay positive and focused on improving my game… I draw inspiration from my past successes and learnings. Reflecting on the moments when I performed at my best and analysing the areas where I can improve from losses, helps me grow as a player. Every setback becomes an opportunity for me to come back stronger.”