过年How?: Bodybuilder Ankit Nayal on Wildlife Donations and Selective Deafness
We quiz some long-term Beijingers on how they intend to spend this year's Chinese New Year and hopefully uncover some horror stories along the way. 过年How, y'all!
If you've spent any time in the Beijing fitness scene, you probably already recognize Ankit Nayal, the director and superstar personal trainer at BActive Sanlitun Soho gym. When Nayal, who has now been in Beijing for eight years, is not lifting weights and helping his clients achieve their fitness goals, he's probably out supporting his friends and local community at a talk, makers market, or charity event, inspiring everyone with his big energy, big heart, and even bigger smile.
So, how exactly does Ankit 过年 anyway?
What's your full name and where are you from?
Ankit Nayal from curry land (India).
What’s your zodiac? Do you think you’re typical of that zodiac sign? Why or why not?
That's my secret! But I don’t believe in zodiacs – you shape your own destiny!
What does your average CNY entail? Where are you headed this year? How do you think it will differ from last year?
Usually, figuring out how to avoid the CNY crowds and exorbitant flight fares. But I’ll be back home in India this year, so it’ll be: eat, train, sleep, repeat. The life of a bodybuilder!
Tell us about a particular CNY nightmare that you've encountered.
CNY is actually a dream come true. Empty roads and a gym completely mine to train in.
Which dishes do you particularly look forward to gorging on every year?
Protein shake(s)? I’ve been stepping towards a less meat-based diet lately, as it's better for the environment. However, when I ate meat back in university days, I could have a big 红烧肉 hóngshāo ròu, braised pork, and bowls of rice to accompany.
Can you give us any tips for avoiding the typical CNY excesses of eating and drinking?
1. Balance out your calories. If you know you’re in for a heavy dinner, have a lighter breakfast and lunch.
2. Start with the protein first. Protein is the most satisfying of all macronutrients, and it leaves you craving less for more.
3. Avoid ingesting sugar and alcohol together. This combination down-regulates insulin sensitivity leading to a substantial increase in the calories being stored as fat.
Got any tips on how to deflect those awkward family questions?
Pretend you didn’t hear them!
Any plans for what to spend your hongbao haul on?
I plan to donate to the charities helping repair the damage caused by Australian wildfires (check out the Australia Wildfire Fund or this weekend's wildfire fund events). So far, 20 million-plus acres have been burned and over 1 billion animals killed...
If there’s one thing you could change about CNY, what would it be?
Nothing. Enjoy what is in store for you and be grateful for the small things in life.
What do you predict the Year of the Rat holds for you?
Bigger biceps, hopefully!
READ: Why 春运 Means Much More Than the "World's Largest Human Migration"
Images courtesy of Ankit Nayal
