#NewsBytesExclusive: 'The Freelancer' actor Navneet Malik reveals his fitness secrets
Navneet Malik is a rising (and handsome!) talent in Tinsel Town who is taking the OTT scenes by storm with his acting chops. Last seen in The Freelancer and gearing up for his next with Sanjay Dutt in The Virgin Tree, the model-turned-actor enjoys attention for his chiseled physique as well. In an exclusive interaction with us, Malik reveals his best-kept fitness secrets.
Take some 'fitspiration' from Malik
What does fitness mean to you?
"Fitness is more of a routine for me. I just want to wake up every morning and do my yoga, meditation, and hit the gym. It's not a job for me but a commitment to self," shares Malik with NewsBytes. Delving deeper into his meditation practice, the actor says he follows "Buddha's practice" wherein he focuses on his breath and keeps going with it.
What exercises do you do to stay fit?
"I like to focus on all body parts throughout the week. My fitness trainer always comes up with a plan that is very engaging and enjoyable, so it is a mix and match of various exercises and workout forms," says Malik. "Personally, I like to do yoga and martial arts. I also enjoy playing basketball when free," he adds.
Trekking is a newly-discovered passion: Malik
On asking whether the star indulges in any adventure activity, Malik says, "Trekking has been my newly-discovered passion. When I was in Cape Town, South Africa, I really enjoyed my time outdoors and going on a trek. That's from where it all started."
Do you follow any natural or Ayurvedic techniques?
"Of course, I believe in natural and home remedies for my good health. Gharelu nuskhe always works," states the actor. "When I used to live in a village as a child, I used to apply mud on my body. Now that I've shifted to Mumbai, I try to keep things natural for my skin. Turmeric would never go out of fashion," he expresses.
Body goals ft. Malik!
Tell us about your diet
"I prefer home-cooked food all the time. I'm not a person who is too fond of eating outside food," reveals the Heropanti 2 actor. "Since I'm a vegetarian, I consume a lot of paneer, soy, and lentils for my protein intake. My diet is pretty simple and natural. If I'm dining outside, I eat some paneer-based dishes. Kadhai paneer is my favorite," he shares.
Malik on his cheat day: 'Samosa is my guilty pleasure'
"My friends and I have a favorite place from where we order samosa. That is my cheat meal and a guilty pleasure. I also like to eat ice cream but not as often," says Malik candidly.
Here's what the actor eats throughout the day
"I wake up pretty early by like 5 in the morning. I consume a fruit or two and then hit the gym. I come back and take my protein supplements," shares Malik. "My breakfast typically includes paneer and a few dry fruits. For lunch, I savor dals, chapati, vegetables, and some rice. I eat vegetables for dinners mostly," he adds.
This is how Malik stays fit when traveling/shooting outdoors
"Honestly, it is very difficult to follow my workout routine when I am traveling or shooting outdoors. However, I do push-ups and run. This keeps me energized. After my shoot, I try to hit the gym for a while," reveals the actor.
Rapid Fire: Malik believes Akshay and Deepika are the fittest
Indoor or outdoor workout? Indoor workout. Your pre-workout snack and post-workout snack? Fruits before workout, dry fruits and protein after it. If not gym, then what? I go for running. Fittest Bollywood actors according to you are... Akshay Kumar and Deepika Padukone. They have great physiques. A fitness myth you want to bust? "Bodies are made in the gym" - This isn't true.
