fitness
This week You! interviews Sarah Kamal Muggo, author of ‘Fitness Fun, Nutrition & Lifestyle in Pakistan’ - the book is first of its kind by the local writer...
You! How did you start your career in fitness and nutrition?
Sarah Kamal Muggo: Being overweight before 16, I wanted to lose weight. Jane Fonda was a serious inspiration. I never pursued it as a career. Fitness and nutrition has always been a passion for me.
You! Where did your passion for writing on fitness and nutrition originate?
SKM: Research oriented article writing was always a strong point for me. When I had freshly completed my Diploma in Fitness and Nutrition after my Masters in English from Punjab University, I felt that alongside my personal workout and eating lifestyle experiences, it would be good to write on this topic for readers interested in how, where and when to start their fitness journey. So I started writing for magazines like Women’s Own and Health and Beauty regularly.
You! What motivated you to come up with your debut book?
SKM: Fitness is a developing industry in Pakistan. We have gyms and trainers, but written knowledge is scant - catering to a Pakistani way of life. Though I was writing regularly on health and fitness, I felt that there was still much that I had not written. A word count of 800 limit for an article would not be the solution, hence this book. Also, I wanted to compile all my notes methodically into a guidance manual for enthusiasts.
Generally, people just want a miracle change without any effort to read the science behind the change. But that’s just what I want to educate everyone about. You have got to read.
My wish is to be able to reach out to all the young girls and moms, so that they may have a more educated approach to their fitness lifestyle. The interviews in the book add vast credible information for readers.
You! Is this book the first of its kind in Pakistan?
SKM: I went to all the book shops and libraries in Lahore, searched online, but could not find anything by a Pakistani author on this genre, health and wellbeing. Indian and western authors were the only ones on the bookshelves. So, I believe that yes this just might happen to be the first of its kind in Pakistan.
You! How long did it take to finish your book and what challenges did you face during the process?
SKM: It took me three years to write this book - from its conception to final editing. In the past three years, I was working day and night on my book; it was written on my phone, iPad, laptop and notebook. I actually learnt how to use the laptop because it became a work necessity. Interviews and selections were difficult. It was a chore to choose from an array of amazing trainers in Lahore. My own trainer from Kenya was kind enough to do a foreword for me. It was also a challenge to get high resolution pictures, the editing part was also a major task, but it all worked out in the end.
You! How other trainers see your book?
SKM: According to Anthony Wachira, personal and fitness trainer, “This book is a pure illustration of fitness goals through lifestyle modifications. This book is not just for those who want to read on fitness, but is also for those struggling to achieve their goals related to lifestyle changes while living in Pakistan.”
You! How do you keep your fitness training knowledge up to date?
SKM: I read a lot on fitness and nutrition all the time. I travel a lot with my husband and family, so that gives me an update on what’s new in the west on training styles and eating habits. I am always up to trying out a new detox super food juice, as well as a HIIT, soul cycle or barre class.
You! Are you working as a trainer or a nutritionist?
SKM: I am often asked if I am a trainer or into any combat sports. Actually, I am not a practitioner trainer or a nutritionist. I just have a diploma in fitness and Nutrition from the International School of Correspondence, USA (1999) and have self applied it. Well, I enjoy a kickboxing workout every week.
However, my book also contains interviews from nutritionists. The nutrition chapters are based on my own nutritional lifestyle experiences.
You! For busy working women, what do you think is the most important thing to do when it comes to staying in shape?
SKM: Squeezing in an hour workout daily I feel is a must. It helps keep you mentally and physically active and promotes detoxification of your body. Watch what you eat as you are what you eat.
You! Is size zero the ultimate size?
SKM: Being the best version of yourself and feeling comfortable in your own skin is the ultimate size. Everyone cannot be size zero as everyone does not have that particular body size or body shape or bone structure to support size zero.
You! What is the single most effective exercise one can do?
SKM: Squats and burpees are very effective combined with running or cardio of choice. Jump rope is great.
You! What are the absolute healthiest foods that you recommend eating daily?
SKM: Fruits, nuts, vegetables, protein, Greek yoghurt, dark chocolate, in of course controlled quantities are a daily must eat.
You! What items do one has to have in one’s grocery trolley?
SKM: Vegetables fruits, meats like chicken, fish, beef, eggs, olive oil, nuts, yoghurt, lemons, anything fresh with an expiry date attached to it.
You! What is healthier, three big meals or several small meals a day?
SKM: Several small meals.
You! Is cheat meal day fine in a week?
SKM: A cheat MEAL every 10th day is fine .A cheat DAY is an incorrect concept.
You! Best tip for finding consistency with workouts?
SKM: Set a time when you are free and know that you can surely workout.
You! As women approach their older years, they battle with bodily aches and pains, and they feel like they have less energy than ever before. What advice can you give women as they get older?
SKM: Incorporate some sort of workout in your daily routine, even if it is a fitwalk in the park and eat healthy and stay hydrated. Weight training is recommended as you grow older. It increases your metabolism and muscle mass. Muscle is what is desirable over fat.
You! How much does diet really play into healthy hair, clear skin, and strong nails?
SKM: Diet is the basic building block of your body cells. Good nutrition supports good growth and healthy cells. If you eat right it reflects on your body and face.
You! Are you in favour of following food diets and what is the best one - Atkins, Mediterranean or Keto?
SKM: I believe in a balanced diet programme. But the Keto is good as long as you follow it for a short period. Intermittent fasting is something I follow regularly. All diets are for short terms to boost your body into working differently. You really just have to stumble upon what’s works for you in the long run. Retraining your hunger cues require time and patience.
You! What foods should one never buy?
SKM: Fried packaged type.
You! Should one go for a detox or juice cleanse?
SKM: Absolutely. It rejuvenates cell production and detoxification.
You! What’s the one best piece of nutritional advice you can give to women?
SKM: Drink at least 2-4 litres of water a day - depending on your activity level.
You! What diet would you recommend to women over 40?
SKM: A balanced fresh non greasy hydrating diet. The book has a lot of information relating to diets after 40.
You! How do you start your day?
SKM: With green tea and lemon / coffee without milk and a high intensity workout.
You! Who is your fitness guru/idol?
SKM: I enjoy Kayla Itsines workouts. Her combinations are powerful and effective . Shushmita Sen’s workout style and Rujuweta Diwekar is definitely number 1 with her nutritional knowledge.
You! What is your favourite indulgence?
SKM: Eton Mess , dark chocolate molten lava, seafood pasta arrabbiata and Hard Rock Cafe home style nachos. There’s a whole long list.
You! What are you currently preoccupied with?
SKM: I am busy marketing my book to an age group of females - 13 years onwards to 60 plus.
You! Your message to women...
SKM: Workout daily, eat healthy, meditate and stay hydrated, and pray for good health. Health is your most precious wealth.
Note: The book is available on line at Ferozsons https://ferozsons.com.pk/product/fitness-funnutrition-and-lifestyle-in-pakistan/