What was the specific physical transformation required for Glory?
Pulkit was already in great shape when we started this project. So, it was really a case of just trying to maintain his physique throughout the shoot. He needed to learn how to box. So, the training and cardio aspect was there. We just had to make sure we concentrated on his strength and conditioning as well. We had to make sure his physique looks muscular and athletic.
What was the first thing you wanted to change about Pulkit’s training approach for this project?
The first thing that I had to do with Pulkit was that I had to teach him how to box. Not only did he have to learn the techniques, but he also had to look like a boxer. His movement was important, which means we did not do the regular body-building type exercises. We did not use the barbells, dumbbells and what not. We got into a more dynamic and functional training with kettle bells and more. My focus was to make him move and look like a boxer.
What kind of combat or sports conditioning went into preparing him for Glory?
I trained Pulkit like I would train any combat athlete. He had to learn how to box, so I trained him like a boxer. We did the techniques, movements and drills. We also did the strength and conditioning that most boxers do. We wanted to show that his body was not only looking fit, but he is physically fit as well. A lot of the shoots he was doing were and could be quite draining. He was doing a lot of fighting, so we had to make sure he was fit for that.
Was there a particular scene or sequence that demanded an especially intense fitness routine?
Honestly, the whole project was demanding. He had to make sure his fitness was on point from day 1, all the way through the end. There were a lot of choreographed fights that he had to do. We had to make sure his training supported the demands of the project. But his energy had to be high all along. We had to find that balance.
How physically demanding was this role compared to other actor transformations you’ve worked on?
I have a huge respect for anybody who is willing to go through a physical transformation to be fitter and become a better version of themselves. The people that I work with are incredibly busy. It would be easy for them to use that as an excuse to skip gym sessions. But no one that I ever worked with has done that. And I think that is testament to all of them. No matter how busy they are or how many things that have going on in their lives, they will still have the discipline to turn up and do the training.
What are the three biggest fitness tips you’d give to actors trying to transform themselves physically and mentally?
The first tip I would give is to make sure that you have a definitive goal and you put a date on that goal. That way, you know exactly what you need to do. And you know exactly how it needs to be done. My second tip is trying to choose activities that you enjoy. If you enjoy playing sports, it is a great way to be fit. So, play as many sports as you can. You are more likely to do activities that you enjoy. Try to choose activities aligned with your fitness goals.
Also Read: Exclusive: Pulkit Samrat on Kriti Kharbanda’s Sacrifices for His Work: “We Did Not Go on Honeymoon”
