Fitness Industry in Pakistan is one of the few industries that has boomed in recent years. We have many options to consider when trying to get a toned body back, from gyms to Yoga and Pilates studios. The only thing we did not have was a detailed read-up guide on a fit and healthy lifestyle.
Sarah Kamal Muggo – the Pakistani author who gave Pakistan its first self-help book on fitness, nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle. Sarah’s book titled ‘Fitness Fun, Nutrition, and Lifestyle in Pakistan’ was officially released on 19th April 2019. Its content focuses on practical lifestyle modifications and diet alterations to help the women of Pakistan lead a healthier lifestyle.
To celebrate the second anniversary of her book, HTV got hold of the author for an exclusive chat, and spoke on fitness, health, diet fads, and her upcoming book!
HTV: You are celebrating 2 years of ‘Fitness Fun, Nutrition & Lifestyle in Pakistan’. What inspired you to write a book about fitness and a healthy lifestyle, particularly for women? Does this book cater to men’s and women’s fitness?
Sarah: Fitness started for me as a weight loss goal in mind. As I delved more into it, it soon enough became a passion. Around 30 years into this field, I have completed various certifications and diplomas, and have tried out every type of workout from Pilates to Skiing. At the same time, nutrition goes hand in hand, it has to be practiced side by side for the overall effect.
The book is female-centric because women particularly want an overnight change, but it very much caters to men and children as well. The basic concepts relating to fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle are the same for both genders. Interviews mentioned in the book are information-laden for men, women & 10 years old and above.
HTV: How difficult was it for you to gather research and information for your book?
Sarah: Not difficult at all! I have various diplomas and certifications on fitness and nutrition, which I regularly update to keep me up with the newest trends. I had 30 years of notes piled up specific to fitness and nutrition. I also gathered a lot of information by attending classes and workshops related to fitness. I even started trying out healthy recipes on myself first. Therefore, research and collecting information was fun with an experimental angle to it.
It took 4 years from the start to the launch of this book. I did everything on my own such as collection, organizing, editing, and printing. I even went through the whole of publishing with Markings Publishers Karachi, who brought the book to its present published form.
HTV: Your book talks about ditching the Size Zero trend. Do you think exposure to social media and international body types has played its role in generating unrealistic fitness goals?
Sarah: Absolutely! A size zero is not for all. Everyone is unique, everybody is different, hence the angle of approach to fitness and nutrition for everyone is different and personalized. Social media only shows the desirable image.
My motto is to be the best version of yourself! Be healthy and have a sensible approach to fitness!
“I had 30 years of notes piled up specific to fitness and nutrition. I also gathered a lot of information by attending classes and workshops related to fitness. I even started trying out healthy recipes on myself first. Therefore, research and collecting information was fun with an experimental angle to it.
It took 4 years from the start to the launch of this book.”
HTV: What type of fitness trend or practice is the most effective to keep the body in shape?
Sarah: Interval training accompanied by yoga and walks, nutrition closest to its natural unprocessed form i.e. from farm to home. I don’t recommend crash diets. Enjoy what you eat in moderation, practice mindful eating, retrain your hunger cues, and learn to sleep well.
HTV: Is your book available in local bookshops? If not, then where can one find the book?
Sarah: It is available at various book retailers like Anees Book Corner in Lahore. You can also order it online from Ferozesons. However, the best way is to DM me on my Instagram handle @fitfoodlifestyle1 to get a signed book!
HTV: What purpose do you want the book to serve for your readers?
Sarah: Through the book, I would like readers to appreciate their abilities to adapt to change, own a better lifestyle from early years and be happy about their bodies. By following my guidance in the book one can learn how to achieve their desired goals healthily and prevent themselves from harm through injuries and wrong eating tactics.
HTV: In this fast-paced world where everyone prefers watching 5 minutes workout video, how would you encourage fitness enthusiasts to read and follow your book?
Sarah: 5 minutes workout video is just a 5 minutes workout video; it is necessary to understand the underlying mechanics of what you are doing. You will not see a change unless you read up on why and how the desired change is obtainable.
By exploring my book, you will understand what suits you. The book will sweep you through the most interesting facts through my personal experiences, my recipes, meal plans, workouts ranging from easy to difficult, food choices, and much more.
HTV: What tips would you like to give to working people who cannot stay in shape because of their busy routines?
Sarah: It is quite simple. Walk as much as you can, raise your heart rate 10 minutes every day, stay hydrated, sleep well, eat healthy, stay active, and focus on mindful eating.
“5 minutes workout video is just a 5 minutes workout video; it is necessary to understand the underlying mechanics of what you are doing. You will not see a change unless you read up on why and how the desired change is obtainable.
By exploring my book, you will understand what suits you.”
HTV: Are you planning to write another book on fitness and a healthy lifestyle? What’s next for you in the pipeline?
Sarah: I certainly intend to. The next book will be touching topics closer to Pakistan’s common diseases, public health, and hygiene, interviews of best doctors, and more.
HTV: As someone who has a diploma in Nutrition, we want to know what your cheat meal is like?
Sarah: A paratha and a devilishly good Pavlova!
HTV: What advice would you like to give to aspiring writers out there who want to pursue a career in writing? Any experience that you’d like to share with us?
Sarah: Writing can be very tedious, time-consuming, and requires a lot of patience. Whoever wants to pursue their career in writing they should write what they have observed or gone through. This will bring out their inner best writer. Also, take an advantage of inspirational moments that give a boost to your writing.
So, what are you waiting for? Insta DM Sarah Kamal today @fitfoodlifestyle1 to get your hands on the signed copy of her book ‘Fitness Fun, Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pakistan’, and begin your journey towards a healthy lifestyle!
