Designer Michelle Salins tells us all about her side of the fitness saga.

How it began
Fitness happened to be a part of my life without really intending to be so. I had chosen to dance with and for Shaimak Davar’s company when I was in Mumbai. I loved dancing and that kept me completely fit. After that, I continued my fitness routine before work took over. There was suddenly too much of travel to do, so fitness took a back seat for a while. However, I got back to fitness when I joined a gym. I restarted my fitness regime recently with a commitment, not to stop and also do a bit of swimming and dance which I love.

My regime
I usually workout for an hour at the gym post work. As much as I love it, I cannot spend more time there as it’s a hectic season at work. I am a complete foodie, so I have to constantly work on my abs if I have to get into my slim fit dresses. I include a bit of exercise even at work as I insist of climbing the stairs, and end up doing so at least 20 times a day. I look at that as a blessing.

My space
I workout at Zela. They have a nice ambience. The swimming pool is the most exciting part of the gym. It’s also close to my studio and that helps.

My diet
Breakfast is the most important meal of my day. I usually have south Indian dishes such as idli or roasted dosa. Cereal or toast with freshly made jams, eggs and a fruit yogurt also figure occasionally. Lunch is quick, with two rotis and vegetables and maybe a bit of brown rice and dal. Dinner takes place early and mostly rice, dal, vegetables and yogurt and occasionally non-veg and sometimes just a soup. I don’t snack regularly, but Sundays are different. I don’t avoid snacking intentionally, it’s just that I have no time to do so. Instead, I end up drinking a tall glass of milk. I love milk and can have it at anytime of the day!

Fitness means
Treating yourself to a good life during the years you live.

Fitness philosophy
Work hard, play hard! Whether it is the treadmill or on the dance floor, just enjoy it.