- Powerlifting and Weightlifting Champion from Gujarat shares his journey, challenges, and message to India’s aspiring strength sport enthusiasts and trainers
- Learning from international coaches Sibi Petois and Dennis James changed my mindset completely. They taught me that success in strength sports isn’t about how much you lift, but how much you learn and improve: Rajnikant Parmar
- His message to youth: What you do outside the gym defines what you become inside it. Avoid bad company, focus on your goals, and keep learning
R MANICKAVASAGAM
AHMEDABAD, OCT 12
From the narrow lanes of Ahmedabad to the global arenas of powerlifting, Rajnikant Parmar has built not just a physique, but a legacy of grit, focus, and discipline. The multiple-time Powerlifting and Weightlifting Champion on Sunday opened up about his journey, challenges, and advice for India’s upcoming strength athletes and the trainers in an exclusive conversation with this correspondent.
Excerpts from the interview:
Early Inspiration and Journey
“I started my journey in Class 10 with a dream of joining the police or the armed forces,” recalls Parmar. “But once I stepped into the Ambubhai Purani Vayam Shala, my direction changed forever.”
The traditional gym, one of Ahmedabad’s oldest, became the crucible where his passion for strength sports was forged. Despite the absence of expert coaches in Gujarat during his early days, Parmar’s determination kept him going.
“Managing proper diet, rest, and recovery was tough. But when you love what you do, the struggle becomes your teacher,” he says.
A poster of Arnold Schwarzenegger once pinned on his bedroom wall became his daily source of inspiration — “Arnold taught me to dream beyond limits,” he smiles.
Challenges, Coaching, and Turning Points
With limited facilities and recognition for powerlifting in India, Parmar’s journey was anything but easy.
“We didn’t have structured diets or modern equipment back then. But consistency and patience were my biggest allies,” he explains.
A turning point came when he began training under international coaches Sibi Petois and Dennis James.
“Learning from them changed my mindset completely. They taught me that success in strength sports isn’t about how much you lift, but how much you learn and improve,” he adds.
When asked about the key to success for trainers and athletes alike, he says simply:
“Knowledge, discipline, and drug-free integrity — that’s the true power triad.”
Parmar, a strong advocate of drug-free sports, has been vocal about clean competition.
“I tell youth in every session — performance-enhancing drugs might give you speed, but they rob you of spirit. A strong India must be a drug-free India,” he emphasizes.
Fitness Philosophy and Routine
A day in Parmar’s life is a masterclass in discipline.
“I follow 8–9 clean meals a day, intense training, and focused recovery,” he says. “Nutrition is 70% of success — your body is built in the kitchen and refined in the gym.”
Even during festivals, when most relax their routines, Parmar stays committed.
“Discipline isn’t a burden — it’s freedom. A champion knows when to say no.”
Asked what separates an average athlete from a champion, he replies with conviction:
“Consistency. Talent gives you a start, but consistency wins the marathon.”
Promoting the Sport in India
Parmar’s efforts extend beyond personal achievements. He was instrumental in bringing Mr. India to Ahmedabad for the first time — a milestone event that showcased international athletes.
“It was a dream to host Mr. India in my city. I funded it myself because Gujarat deserves a place on the national strength map,” he says proudly.
He believes Gujarat holds immense untapped potential.
“If schools, colleges, and local gyms identify young strength talents early, we can produce champions who make India proud,” he asserts.
However, he feels India still has a long way to go in providing adequate infrastructure.
“We need recognition, better training setups, and sponsorships. Powerlifters deserve the same respect as cricketers,” he adds.
Mentorship and Message to Youth
Known for his motivational workshops across Gujarat, Parmar constantly reminds young athletes of the importance of discipline beyond the gym.
“What you do outside the gym defines what you become inside it. Avoid bad company, focus on your goals, and keep learning.”
He credits government programs like Shakti Dooth Yojna for supporting his athletic journey and spreading fitness awareness.
And his final message to India’s youth?
“Stay strong, stay clean, and stay consistent. There are no shortcuts in strength — only hard work and heart.”
As he continues to mentor and motivate the next generation, Rajnikant Parmar stands as a symbol of perseverance — proof that with passion and discipline, even the heaviest weights can be lifted.
