John’s marathon mantra

The city will host the 13th edition of the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon on January 17, and no one could be more excited about the upcoming event than its ambassador John Abraham.

The 43-year-old Bollywood actor who has been associated with the SCMM since its inception, says if fitness is a religion, then marathons are the best kind of medicine. “Worshipping your body is the best practice. If you can do it the right way, it will lead to a healthy lifestyle. 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 as he has 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 the full marathon one day,” says the actor. Although he was born in Kochi, the actor grew up in Mumbai and hence, feels a deep connection with the event.

“The marathon reflects the spirit of Mumbaikars, people come out with water and drinks to help each other. It is the ideal Sunday. I wish every day 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 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. Work out so that old clothes look good on you!”