‘I know how tough it is to get out of bed…’: Ananya Panday on why fitness should be about mental strength, not just physical goals

 

Ananya Panday shares that she finds inspiration in Prajakta Koli's dedication to fitness

While physical fitness often takes centre stage in workout routines, actor Ananya Panday brings attention to a less visible benefit -- mental fitness. 

 Especially in how she motivates herself with positive self-talk after each workout. Panday says, “I know how tough it is to get out of bed and do that one workout. But it really makes a huge difference.”

Koli replies, “You’re a different person after that. For me, everybody asks me, ‘Okay what is your goal weight?’ or ‘What is the kind of body…’, and I said, ‘Whatever changes come in my body, that’s a bonus. For me after every workout mentally I’m so good and I’m more productive, I’m in a better mood. Everything’s great.”

Ananya agrees and adds, “People associate working out with physical fitness but I think more than anything, it’s actually mental fitness.” Her perspective highlights an increasingly recognised benefit of working out: the mental clarity, reduced stress, and improved mood that come after a good session.

How can individuals shift their mindset to prioritise mental fitness when they work out rather than focusing solely on physical results?

“Shifting the focus from physical appearance to mental well-being starts with a mindset change. One of the most effective ways to do this is by redefining your goals. Instead of setting appearance-based targets, like losing weight or achieving a certain physique, consider goals related to mental health, such as reducing stress or boosting energy.