Student Achiever: ‘Martial Arts has carved my body and strength into an unimaginable prowess’

His attack and defence strategies defy the time and motion theory, as that’s the impact of his brisk agility. Meet Kunal Sharma who is studying in class VIII at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park. In a candid interview, Kunal expresses his gratitude to his school for being the best-guiding light.

Read edited excerpts here.

Tell us something about your recent achievements in martial arts competitions.

I recently participated in the school zonal competition and won second place this year. Additionally, I achieved third place at the state level. Previously, I also participated in the Nationals held in Chhattisgarh during the 2022-2023 year.

How did Apeejay School support you in this sport?

Apeejay School provided me with tremendous support by offering proper training and strategic guidance in martial arts. This has greatly helped me build my skills and confidence in the sport.

What’s the most challenging part of martial arts?

The most challenging part of martial arts is staying consistent with practice and constantly pushing myself to work harder. 

Would you like to pursue this sport professionally in future?

I will do my best to continue pursuing this sport in the future while also focusing on my studies.

How has martial arts changed your life personally?

Martial arts has profoundly impacted my life by instilling a strong sense of discipline and focus. The rigorous training has taught me the importance of consistency, hard work, and perseverance. By adhering to a structured routine, I have learnt to manage my time efficiently, balancing practice, studies, and personal activities.

What does your training regime look like?

My training regimen includes various elements designed to build strength, flexibility, technique, stamina, and mental focus. I focus on strength-building exercises to improve my physical power, flexibility training to enhance my range of motion, and mastering techniques to ensure precision and efficiency in every movement.

Any special diet you follow?

I don’t follow any specific diet, but I make sure to eat a balanced and healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. I also try to maintain a good balance of protein, whole grains, and healthy fats to support my overall health and energy levels.

Who is your inspiration?

My inspirational guru is our martial arts teacher at school. He has been a key figure in motivating and guiding me throughout my martial arts journey. His dedication, expertise, and unwavering support have been instrumental in pushing me to stay focused and constantly improve my skills. He not only teaches the techniques but also emphasizes the importance of discipline, mental toughness, and consistency in training.

Who is your favourite martial artist and why?

My favourite martial artist is Donnie Yen because, at a young age, under the guidance of his mother, Yen developed an interest in martial arts and began exploring various styles, including Tai Chi and other traditional Chinese martial arts. At the age of 16, his parents sent him to Beijing, where he trained with the Beijing Wushu Team, marking the beginning of his serious dedication to Wushu.