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Rajat Chauhan

Rajat Chauhan is a Sports-Exercise Medicine doctor

Articles by Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Chasing the runner’s high

Most non-runners think of this term, often used in the running community, as an exaggeration, an elusive mythical sensation. Is it?

For a couple of decades now, I have been telling folks who I have mentored for running that if you want to last as long as you possibly can, you need to slow down.(Pixabay)

Opinion

Published on Apr 09, 2024 09:17 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

Hips don't lie, they also help prevent injuries when running

By focusing on moving the hip backwards, engaging the glutes, and improving cadence, runners can reduce the strain on their bodies and run more efficiently

When an amateur runner takes longer strides, their heels strike the ground, landing ahead of their knees. The heavy impact from the contact with the ground transmits excessive force up the shin, to the knee, the hips and up the spine, leading to a majority of aches and pains in these regions.

Opinion

Published on Apr 02, 2024 01:04 AM IST

ByRajat Chauhan

Reviving ancient exercise principles for today's wellness warriors

Revisit the wisdom of Sushruta to redefine our approach to fitness, prioritising personalised exercise regimens, mindful movement, and holistic well-being

Even though we have known and have been prescribed exercises for thousands of years, it's seemingly only a handful who end up picking a physically active lifestyle, playing sports and doing exercises(Pixabay)

Opinion

Updated on Feb 12, 2024 09:09 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Fitness is a journey best started young

Children pick up habits by observing. That’s the case with physical activity too. As exams approach, nothing could beat stress better than some daily exercise

There is an immense amount of research now to show that physical activity in the form of exercise and sports plays an important role in boosting attention span, memory, problem-solving, reasoning, thinking and planning skills.(Pixabay)

Opinion

Published on Jan 02, 2024 09:00 AM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

Pregnant and marathon-ready at 39 weeks: A woman's unique fitness goals

An alarming decline in fitness, especially among younger generations, prompts a call for prioritising physical activity for pregnant women and their children

Deepika Chillar's fitness routine(Anirudh Choudhary.)

Opinion

Published on Dec 19, 2023 08:00 AM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

Art of Science and Fitness | Why going beyond wins and losses matters in sports

Losing or winning one match doesn’t make a team pathetic or great. It's rather about the long-term cultural change it makes in society

India's Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma look dejected after losing the ICC Cricket World Cup final(REUTERS)

Opinion

Published on Dec 06, 2023 08:00 AM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

Art and Science of Fitness | What an ultra-marathoner can teach us

No, we're not talking about endurance or discipline. Jason Dunn's memoir holds an important insight into legacy, and how to create it

Jason Dunn at La Ultra - The High from the 2014 edition. ( Kavin Bhonsle)

Opinion

Published on Nov 24, 2023 08:40 AM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art of Science and Fitness | A doctor's reminder to cherish family

As people age, their greatest fear isn't illness or death but reliance on others. It's time we support those who once supported us and boost their confidence.

I urge you to please spend quality time with them, today, right now, rather than postponing it.(pixabay)

opinion

Published on Oct 22, 2023 10:00 AM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Lessons from ‘The Fault in Our Stars’

Contrary to the 2014 Hollywood film title, it’s not our fate that determines our lives, but our actions or rather our inaction. Put on a smile, and get moving

Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort in a still from The Fault in Our Stars.

opinion

Updated on Oct 09, 2023 03:53 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | The power of habits for lasting fitness

To form sustainable fitness habits, strike a balance between pursuing fitness goals and maintaining a well-rounded, enjoyable life.

Our lazy brain doesn’t want to figure out new patterns each time. It prefers to stick to the same old ways.(Pixabay)

opinion

Published on Sep 18, 2023 09:24 AM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | How worried should you be about your flat feet

Flat feet, even if present, do not necessarily lead to problems. Focus on taking a proactive role in improving foot health, rather than unneeded interventions

Flat foot refers to inner (medial) arches being flattened and not being visible, as we stand(Representative Image- Pixabay)

opinion

Published on Sep 02, 2023 06:24 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | How to bridge the gap in intention and habit

If you already have the intention to be more active and fit, you need to revisit your ‘why’. Is it to satisfy your ‘real self’ or actualise your ‘ideal self’?

Intention is a good starting point because without it you can’t get anywhere, but we need to figure out how to convert our intentions into actions. (Pixabay)

opinion

Updated on Aug 15, 2023 01:01 AM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Busting myths on resistance training

As individuals start resistance training, no matter how light the weight is, it is effective at improving strength, building muscle size, and improving function

As we grow up, society repeatedly tells us that push-ups are very difficult to do as we are too weak to do them, and we spend a lifetime following this self-fulfilling prophecy.(Pixabay)

opinion

Published on Jul 31, 2023 09:57 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | 'Sensing' your way through for optimal results

Conscious efforts, mindfulness and deliberate practices can awaken and enhance your perception beyond the five senses, unlocking the sixth sense - the ‘feel’.

Even though it's not mentioned in the five senses, ‘feel’ can be considered the sixth sense. (Pixabay)

opinion

Published on Jul 17, 2023 10:01 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Lessons in endurance from disabled athletes

The story of visually impaired athletes like Divyanshu Ganatra, is a lesson in challenging norms and pushing boundaries. We all have much to learn from them

So, how does a visually impaired person fly? (Representative Image- Credit: Adventures Beyond Barriers Foundation)

opinion

Published on Jul 10, 2023 06:40 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Soul and soles connection

Humility and empathy help us reach our optimal best even in physical performance. The art of letting go is crucial - more so, the art of letting go of one's ego

Siddhartha Sharma, who ran a yoga school in Goa before Covid, is a runner and has gone deep into the connection between the soul and the soles.(Amit Pratap Singh)

opinion

Published on Jun 19, 2023 05:59 PM IST

ByRajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Strength training for cardiovascular health

Strength training is frowned upon when a person has conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and back and knee pains. Here's what the science says

Christine Pemberton, 69, summited Lobuche, a 6,119-metre mountain in Nepal, last month.

health

Updated on Jun 12, 2023 11:02 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Elite sport helps in getting the general popula

Often, the case built for elite sporting events is based on the assumption that they will make people more physically active. Does research back the claim?

We should question the conventional belief that elite sports (sports at the highest level of competition) and sports persons encourage the general population to become more active(Unsplash)

opinion

Updated on Jun 05, 2023 10:32 AM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | A midday snooze can optimise your productivity

Studies have found the hidden benefits of daytime napping. Here's what we know:

To better appreciate the appropriate length of a nap, it is essential to first comprehend the physiological dynamics of sleep. (Shutterstock)

health

Published on Apr 08, 2023 02:36 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | 3 films, 1 message: Live life to the fullest

This week, I bring to you, dear readers, three films - "Your Day," "A Man Called Otto," and "The Professor" — and their themes of living life to the fullest, having fun, and finding purpose.

A Man Called Otto; Your Day; The Professor.

health

Updated on Mar 25, 2023 05:37 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Movement and mental health: The link is clear

Can physical activity help in treating and managing moderate mental health conditions? A new study synthesised the effects of physical activity and the results are telling — it's a resounding "yes"

Don't consider it a rat race because the only person you're competing with is who you were yesterday. There will be good days and bad days. Don’t let them excite or irritate you. Just be on the journey to be a better you. (Unsplash)

health

Published on Mar 15, 2023 11:05 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | How best to avoid injury, with or without shoes

Heel landing in runners is thought to be injurious. I take you down memory lane — yours, mine and a man called Ed to decode this.

If you're ready to hit the pavement, make sure to take the necessary precautions and train your body properly. (Shutterstock)

health

Updated on Mar 04, 2023 04:13 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Decoding the fuss around barefoot running

Minimalist shoes became popular because of the hypothesis that they led to reduced running injuries. After almost a decade and a half, what does the evidence suggest?

health

Updated on Mar 04, 2023 04:51 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | In Mewat, an initiative to empower young girls

SwaTaleem Foundation, which serves rural adolescent girls from marginalised communities in Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, had an annual meet which saw girls run several races and learn to use running as a tool for empowerment.

At the annual fest of 5 KGBVs. (Photo credit: FilmArT)

health

Published on Feb 18, 2023 07:31 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Demystifying mindfulness meditation

A recent scientific study showed the importance of mindfulness meditation and its role in managing pain. Here is why these findings are interesting and important:

health

Published on Feb 12, 2023 09:18 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | A fitness enthusiast who bravely fought cancer

Rohit's incredible story — from being overweight to getting fit and enjoying the journey, to then battling cancer and running a marathon — needs to be told. So here it is:

health

Published on Jan 30, 2023 07:30 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Of pregnancies and active lifestyles

I spoke to two women doctors who are specialists in sports science about their pregnancies and the importance of keeping active. Here's what they said:

health

Updated on Jan 20, 2023 05:39 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | Discovering the benefits of stationary bikes

Recumbent bikes isolate the lower body from the upper body, making it an excellent piece of equipment to activate one's muscles and help us get fitter. This is a lesson I've just learnt

health

Updated on Jan 16, 2023 01:16 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | A guide to running in the cold

Most people dread running in the cold. And when they do, they overdress and take shallow, rapid breaths. Here, I take you through the basics to help your run safely during the winter season

At all times, remember, the fear of something is worse than the adversity. Do these basics and you are good to go, no matter how inhospitable the conditions are. (Shutterstock)

health

Published on Jan 07, 2023 03:55 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

The Art and Science of Fitness | From overcoming Injuries to Pursuing Adventure

Through determination and perseverance, it is possible to overcome injuries and continue living an active, adventurous life. Setbacks should not be allowed to stand in the way of pursuing our passions.

Dr Mark Steven Woolley. (Photo credit: UpSlope Productions)

health

Updated on Dec 17, 2022 08:41 PM IST

ByDr Rajat Chauhan

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Rajat Chauhan

Rajat Chauhan is a Sports-Exercise Medicine doctor

Most non-runners think of this term, often used in the running community, as an exaggeration, an elusive mythical sensation. Is it?

By focusing on moving the hip backwards, engaging the glutes, and improving cadence, runners can reduce the strain on their bodies and run more efficiently

Revisit the wisdom of Sushruta to redefine our approach to fitness, prioritising personalised exercise regimens, mindful movement, and holistic well-being

Children pick up habits by observing. That’s the case with physical activity too. As exams approach, nothing could beat stress better than some daily exercise

An alarming decline in fitness, especially among younger generations, prompts a call for prioritising physical activity for pregnant women and their children

Losing or winning one match doesn’t make a team pathetic or great. It's rather about the long-term cultural change it makes in society

No, we're not talking about endurance or discipline. Jason Dunn's memoir holds an important insight into legacy, and how to create it

As people age, their greatest fear isn't illness or death but reliance on others. It's time we support those who once supported us and boost their confidence.

Contrary to the 2014 Hollywood film title, it’s not our fate that determines our lives, but our actions or rather our inaction. Put on a smile, and get moving

To form sustainable fitness habits, strike a balance between pursuing fitness goals and maintaining a well-rounded, enjoyable life.

Flat feet, even if present, do not necessarily lead to problems. Focus on taking a proactive role in improving foot health, rather than unneeded interventions

If you already have the intention to be more active and fit, you need to revisit your ‘why’. Is it to satisfy your ‘real self’ or actualise your ‘ideal self’?

As individuals start resistance training, no matter how light the weight is, it is effective at improving strength, building muscle size, and improving function

Conscious efforts, mindfulness and deliberate practices can awaken and enhance your perception beyond the five senses, unlocking the sixth sense - the ‘feel’.

The story of visually impaired athletes like Divyanshu Ganatra, is a lesson in challenging norms and pushing boundaries. We all have much to learn from them

Humility and empathy help us reach our optimal best even in physical performance. The art of letting go is crucial - more so, the art of letting go of one's ego

Strength training is frowned upon when a person has conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and back and knee pains. Here's what the science says

Often, the case built for elite sporting events is based on the assumption that they will make people more physically active. Does research back the claim?

Studies have found the hidden benefits of daytime napping. Here's what we know:

This week, I bring to you, dear readers, three films - "Your Day," "A Man Called Otto," and "The Professor" — and their themes of living life to the fullest, having fun, and finding purpose.

Can physical activity help in treating and managing moderate mental health conditions? A new study synthesised the effects of physical activity and the results are telling — it's a resounding "yes"

Heel landing in runners is thought to be injurious. I take you down memory lane — yours, mine and a man called Ed to decode this.

Minimalist shoes became popular because of the hypothesis that they led to reduced running injuries. After almost a decade and a half, what does the evidence suggest?

SwaTaleem Foundation, which serves rural adolescent girls from marginalised communities in Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, had an annual meet which saw girls run several races and learn to use running as a tool for empowerment.

A recent scientific study showed the importance of mindfulness meditation and its role in managing pain. Here is why these findings are interesting and important:

Rohit's incredible story — from being overweight to getting fit and enjoying the journey, to then battling cancer and running a marathon — needs to be told. So here it is:

I spoke to two women doctors who are specialists in sports science about their pregnancies and the importance of keeping active. Here's what they said:

Recumbent bikes isolate the lower body from the upper body, making it an excellent piece of equipment to activate one's muscles and help us get fitter. This is a lesson I've just learnt

Most people dread running in the cold. And when they do, they overdress and take shallow, rapid breaths. Here, I take you through the basics to help your run safely during the winter season

Through determination and perseverance, it is possible to overcome injuries and continue living an active, adventurous life. Setbacks should not be allowed to stand in the way of pursuing our passions.

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