Arvind Baldiya, 31, is a professional model living between Haryana and Delhi, India. His passion is bodybuilding, focusing on a natural aesthetic and functional physique. We asked him for some tips!
Choosing a PT…
“A PT should understand your goals and limitations and have scientific knowledge of training and nutrition. Before hiring a trainer, ask about their qualifications, approach to training different body types, if they create personalised plans, and how they track progress. A trainer should educate you, not just make you tired!”
A trainer should educate you, not just make you tired!
Choosing a gym…
“If the machines and weights are in good condition, the rest is your mindset. People can go to an expensive gym and still not meet their goals, while other people, with fewer resources, can achieve remarkable changes.”
Free weights or machines?
“Both. Free weights build raw strength and stability. Machines help with isolation and controlled movements. A balanced program uses both.”
Modelling…
“My career began quite organically. My physique attracted attention on social media, and from there, things grew quickly. I do runway and photo-based work, but I lean more toward fitness shoots because they allow me to express strength, discipline and masculine energy – the things that define me.”
Group training, regular partner or solo?
“I mostly train solo because it keeps me focused and mindful. Group classes are great for beginners who need motivation. A consistent training partner is good for strength training, especially when working with heavy weights.”
Exercise is therapy. It improves mood, reduces anxiety, builds confidence, and creates structure in life.
Does regular exercise improve mental health?
“Absolutely. Exercise is therapy. It improves mood, reduces anxiety, builds confidence, and creates structure in life. A good workout instantly resets the mind.”
A healthy diet…
“My diet is simple and clean: eggs, seasonal vegetables, fruits, paneer, dals, rice, ghee, and local foods. I keep protein high, fats moderate, and carbs based on training load. I use whey protein and creatine supplements and sometimes herbs like ashwagandha and gokhru, depending on my recovery.”
Alcohol…
“I avoid alcohol because it affects recovery, sleep, hormones, and overall health. But for the average person, occasional moderate consumption is fine if the rest of their lifestyle is disciplined.”
Grooming…
“Every night, I massage coconut oil onto my hair and beard. I don’t apply any chemicals to my face or body. I have body hair, which I trim for shoots, and I wax my forearms as required for each shoot.”
Does fitness improve sex?
“Yes! Fitness improves endurance, stamina, blood flow, confidence, and hormonal balance. When your mind and body both feel strong, overall intimacy naturally improves.”
When your mind and body both feel strong, overall intimacy naturally improves.
Photography: Cyrus; Adrian C Martin; Vaclav Zabranski.
