Not so 'Gautam Gambhir'

The opening batsman who's going through a somewhat low phase after being dropped for the ongoing series against Australia says that he's an optimist and believes in a better tomorrow. Gautam, who was recently part of a brand's fitness campaign in Delhi talks to CS about his fitness regime, family and sense of motivation.

Who: Gautam Gambhiru00a0
What: Talking about his fitness regime

Cardio calling
I enjoy cardio exercises the most. Since last year I have been doing CrossFit as well. I like to mix up my workout with a bit of cardio, strength training, running and weights. I prefer shorter intense workouts over lengthy ones. My daily fitness regime lasts for around 45-60 minutes. I alternate my activities to keep the boredom out, and have a little fun along the way. I prefer group or buddy workouts as opposed to working out alone. Even when I don't have access to a gym I do pushups, stretching and other exercises in my room. So, exercise is a must for me.

Pep talk
I always remind myself that there is a better tomorrow. I am essentially an optimist. A low phase spurs me to work harder and harder. I firmly believe that sooner or later, hard work always pays. Be true to the game, yourself and keep going. The worst thing you can do to yourself is give up in tough times. A real measure of success comes from how well you can take both success and failure in your stride.u00a0My family is my biggest strength. They keep me grounded and happy. During tough times they are quick to remind me of my strengths and keep on encouraging me. During good times they ensure I stay grounded and focused.

Celebrity and me?
Yes, I have said that I don't believe that I am a celebrity. I attribute this thinking to my family and upbringing. I had a middle class upbringing and was taught to have tremendous value and respect for the small joys of life that matter more than things like fame which I believe is a fickle friend. I remain focused on performing - that is the mantra I follow diligently. The rest comes and goes.

Angry Young Man
Well, I am serious only on the field. And being intense doesn't mean that I can't be relaxed at all (laughs). Off the field, I think I am the one cracking maximum jokes and laughing at the smallest of things. Clean, good intended humour makes me smile but pulling pranks on my team mates takes the cake for being the best laughter medicine after a tiring day on the field. u00a0