Virat Kohli’s transformation from being a chubby cricketer to one of the fittest athletes in the world has been awe-inspiring, to say the least. In fact, several members of the Indian cricket team got inspired by his fitness regime and started training with discipline.

The star India batter has often attributed his success with the willow to his intense fitness regime. However, in order to attain supreme fitness levels, the 34-year-old has had to make some serious changes to his eating habits and lifestyle.

In his recent interview with indianexpress.com, Kohli revealed that a well-balanced diet with the right mix of nutrients and proteins is a top priority for him.

“Fitness has always been a top priority for me. It is not just about being a professional athlete — it is also about leading a healthy and fulfilling life. My fitness routine is quite comprehensive, and I make sure to dedicate time every day to stay in top condition,” the former Indian captain said.

“When it comes to training, I believe in pushing myself to the limit. I engage in a combination of strength training, agility drills, and endurance exercises. It’s all about building a strong foundation to handle the challenges of the game and stay injury-free. Of course, rest and recovery are equally crucial. Giving my body enough time to recover from intense training sessions is essential for peak performance. So, I make sure to get enough sleep and listen to my body’s needs,” he added.

However, Kohli still enjoys his fair share of cheat days as he treats himself with chole bhature whenever the opportunity comes.

“Yes, I do enjoy good food, and I must admit, being a Punjabi, I have a soft spot for some delicious and hearty dishes. Chole bhature is an all-time favourite for me and whenever I have the chance, I indulge in a fulfilling plate of chole bhature.”

“So, while I do treat myself to such dishes occasionally, I make sure to follow a strict diet to stay in shape.”

Kohli considers self-care and well-being as an integral part of his daily routine. “I engage in regular workouts, meditation, and mindfulness practices to keep my mind and body in sync. Additionally, spending quality time with my loved ones is vital for me to unwind and find emotional support.”

The seasoned Indian cricketer also highlighted the importance of self-belief in his illustrious career.

“But what has truly defined me as a person is my ability to stay resilient and keep pushing forward, no matter how difficult the circumstances. People will always have opinions and judgments, but I have learned to trust my instincts and have confidence in my abilities. This self-belief has been the driving force behind all my achievements on the cricket field.”

“This self-belief helps me stay positive and focused on improving my game… I draw inspiration from my past successes and learnings. Reflecting on the moments when I performed at my best and analysing the areas where I can improve from losses, helps me grow as a player. Every setback becomes an opportunity for me to come back stronger.”

Virat Kohli will be next seen in action during the upcoming Asia Cup 2023, slated to be held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka from August 30 to September 17.