From Overcoming Adversity to Achieving Dreams: Shikha S. Pandya’s Inspiring Fitness Journey
Although I was never overweight, my weight began to increase significantly after marriage and pregnancy. Along with the weight gain, I encountered several health issues, including problems with my L4-L5 and L5-S1 disc space, osteopenia, spondylitis, as well as sinus and immunity challenges. My immune system was so weak that even a simple cold would take at least 10 days to recover from.
Professionally, my life was always demanding. I held the position of HR manager in various government departments, which made balancing work and personal life incredibly difficult. My husband tried to assist as much as possible, but he was also recovering from two major accidents that occurred back-to-back. During this challenging period, I had to leave my job to care for him and our toddler. As a career-focused woman, this was devastating, but life had to go on. It was then that I made the decision to overcome these challenges.
Fitness and sports had always been a passion of mine, so when a friend introduced me to Fittr, it reawakened the athlete within me, and I resolved to become a fitness coach. This decision wasn’t easy, and no one in my family supported me. Doubts started to creep in, but I decided to push through the negativity and began working on my INFS diploma to become a coach.
While halfway through my diploma, the worst happened—I injured my back severely. I was bedridden, unable to even turn over in bed without assistance. My husband had to carry me to the bathroom, and I used crutches to move around the house. Despite consulting some of the best doctors in India, I was told to either take medication and give up on my fitness journey or prepare for surgery. Defying all the odds, I remained determined and kept my spirits high. I eventually recovered from the injury and completed my diploma. Becoming a certified coach was a moment of immense pride for me, and my progress hasn’t stopped since.
After earning my certification, I set out to achieve my biggest dream: to call myself an athlete. My journey started with a commitment to improving my health and fitness and losing some weight, but it soon evolved into gaining the confidence to pursue my dreams. In 2023, I stepped onto the ICN India podium and won gold and silver medals in various sports and other categories.
This journey wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my seniors, coaches, husband, parents, and friends. I’m forever grateful to @fittrwithsquats for enabling me to reach this point.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to never limit your fitness journey by setting timelines. This isn’t a project that needs to be completed—it’s your body, and it requires daily nourishment and care. Also, avoid comparing yourself to others. Everyone is different, and so are their goals. Focus on your own progress and be consistent in pursuing whatever you aim to achieve.
