Mumbai: When John Abraham isn’t shooting, he leafs through catalogue of footballers, chalking out the best buy for his team (NorthEast United FC) for Indian Super League and once the mega event is done, he flexes his muscles for Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon (SCMM).
The Maximum City will host the 13th edition of SCMM on January 17.
The 43-year-old Bollywood actor – also the brand ambassador for the largest marathon in Asia almost since the inception – says if fitness becomes religion, marathon is the best medicine.
“Worshipping your body is the best practise. If you can do it the right way, it will lead to a healthy lifestyle. I can cite an example for the youngsters, please check your habits and stay healthy and then, the body will talk for itself,” asserts John, who regularly runs for at least 16 km.
“On an average, I almost cover a half marathon (21 km). It is a part of my exercise. But running on the road is difficult and credible, I would like to congratulate the participants who pull it off,” he adds.
Being the face of the event, John still hasn’t been able to participate in the run in order to fulfil other duties.
“There are certain functions we have to perform with dignitaries, with other diplomats, meet the press etc. But I wish to run one day, I would like to run the full marathon,” says the actor, also a fitness icon.
Though born in Kochi, the actor grew up in Mumbai and hence, the secret behind his long association with the event.
“Marathon reflects the spirit of Mumbaikars, people come out with water and drinks to help each other. It is the ideal Sunday. I wish everyday could be like the marathon day.”
John’s preferred form of exercise is a mix of strength training and cardio and he had a word of advice for the aspiring marathoners.
“It is important for them to hydrate themselves and have the essential carbs so that you can burn them. I am into organic food – salads and egg whites. Workout so that the old clothes look good on you,” he says.
