British-Indian fitness model and actor Jason Shah didn’t just enter the Indian film industry with a sculpted physique and acting skills; he brought with him a fitness philosophy centered on discipline, balance, and cultural adaptability.
A Love for Sports and Fitness
Jason’s passion for fitness started long before he became a familiar face on screen. As a child, he was deeply involved in sports, playing cricket, football, and volleyball. Though he once dreamed of becoming a professional cricketer in India, passport restrictions ended that possibility. Despite this setback, Jason, a Queensland Cricket Academy graduate, remained focused on his fitness goals.
Mental and Physical Health
For Jason, fitness isn’t just about physical strength. He believes it’s equally important for mental health. “The air we breathe isn’t the cleanest, which is why I use an oxygen tank for recovery,” Jason explains. He notes that much of the fatigue people experience is due to a lack of oxygen. As an actor, staying fit is vital not just for his body but for his well-being. “Fitness is about staying happy and peaceful, especially with the demanding nature of long shoots, action sequences, and constant travel.”
Jason’s time on the reality show Bigg Boss 10 also tested his physical and mental resilience. He recalls, “The atmosphere was like a fraction of what jail would be like. I fell sick and passed out because my nutrition was off. I need meat and certain veggies to sustain myself, but those weren’t available.” Despite the difficulties, he came out of the experience more committed to his fitness philosophy, learning the importance of preparation and adaptability.
Daily Rituals and Routine
Jason’s day starts early, at 4:30 a.m., with prayers and scripture reading. His secret to waking up early? “Sleep by 10:15 p.m., avoid late dinners, and put down your phone an hour before bed.” His morning routine includes copper-infused water, fruits, eggs, and a pre-workout protein shake with bananas. Copper water, stored in a copper container, is believed to have health benefits, such as aiding in energy production and supporting the body’s chemical functions.
While he maintains a clean eating plan, Jason allows himself one cheat day each week. “Gulab jamun and milk cake are my guilty pleasures,” he says with a smile.
Tailored Workouts for Every Role
Though gym workouts are his staple, Jason customizes his fitness regime depending on his acting roles. For his role in Heeramandi, he avoided getting six-pack abs, as a British officer from that era wouldn’t have had them. However, for Jigra, he bulked up to match the character’s intensity. Jason also incorporates traditional Indian fitness practices like yoga and Ayurveda into his routine. “My Gujarati father taught me about local herbs and practices. Watching him manage diabetes and leukaemia with discipline was inspiring. Ragi, for example, is one of the healthiest foods out there, and I include it in my diet.”
Staying Motivated
When motivation dips, Jason finds inspiration in helping others. “Fitness isn’t just about the gym—it’s about impacting others, too. I once encouraged my cook to start running, and now he runs every day. Seeing that kind of change is incredibly motivating.”
He is also working on a fitness platform designed to make wellness accessible to people from all walks of life. “Fitness should be for everyone, not just a luxury,” he says.
Jason Shah’s Fitness Mantras
Start Early: “Morning workouts set the tone for the day.”
Mix It Up: “Incorporate different routines, like weights, sports, or swimming, to keep it interesting.”
Clean Eating: “Use ingredients like ghee, ragi, and local herbs to fuel your body naturally.”
Cheat Wisely: “Indulge occasionally, but don’t let it derail your goals.”
Jason Shah’s fitness journey reflects his adaptability and commitment to a disciplined lifestyle. Whether he’s preparing for a role, enduring the challenges of reality TV, or motivating others to begin their fitness journeys, Jason embodies the belief that fitness is not just a routine but a way of life. As he puts it, “Fitness is one of the major keys to staying happy and peaceful.”
