Of late I am being introduced to a whole new vocabulary – Pallof hold, farmer’s walk, goblet squats, dead-walk, dead-bug, burpies, dead-lifts and bench presses. A whole new world of weird and wonderful movements designed to improve core strength and what not. In the gym environment where most people are doing similar stuff, I robotically follow instructions to precision. It’s only a day later that I discover places in my body that I didn’t know existed.

It’s not pleasant. The simplest of movements like getting in and out of the car can be painfully uncomfortable. Yet, I feel good and a couple of days later, go back for more. My instructor is a lovely young man who often reminds me of Saagar. He has a very self-deprecating sense of humour and he does make me laugh.

If half an hour of moderate exercise could be packed into a little pill, it would be the best supplement of all. The physical benefits of exercise are well known but it’s effect on the mind is intriguing. I find it to be stimulating and relaxing at the same time. I feel better on days that start with a session of exercise. I sleep better too. Even though everything aches, I feel more energetic.

While it is hard work, its good.