New Delhi: Age is just a number. Dr Rajesh Acharya, senior consultant, Department of Neuro Surgeon proves it by completing his 80 half Marathons @60 giving younger ones a run for their money. His age defying attitude is so very inspirational and is a ‘pick-me-up’ for seniors suffering from end of the road syndrome.
Completing 60 is very important milestone called Shashipurti (60th birth anniversary) in a man’s life in India. So, his 80th Marathon is a fitting tribute to this milestone.
To commemorate, the 2nd Anniversary of Fit India Movement launched by our Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narender Modi on 29th August 2019, Dr. Acharya is running his 80th half marathon (21km).
Dr. Acharya is an avid runner and fitness enthusiast. Dr. Acharya had started running after 53 years of age and has successfully completed 80 half marathons in last 8 years.
Dr. Acharya has shared his tips for attaining physical fitness and avoiding stroke, especially during this Covid pandemic.
Dr Acharya organized “Delhi Fitness Run” on 29th September 2019 on “World Heart Day” to motivate the community in which about a thousand runners and doctors participated. On November 01, 2020 Dr. Rajesh Acharya ran his 60th Half Marathon of 21 kilometers.
According to Dr. Rajesh Acharya, Senior Neurosurgeon, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, “It has been proven that neurological complications in Covid patients can be prevented by increasing the immunity by keeping oneself fit and running. I would suggest all individuals irrespective of age to indulge in moderate or vigorous physical activity. Running marathons help one to increase vital capacity of lungs, pumping action of the heart and builds strong bones and muscles.”
Stroke occurs when blood supply to any part of the brain is reduced, brain cells beginning to die in minutes. One in four people are at risk of suffering from stroke. Stroke is a medical emergency mainly due to diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and obesity: most of which can be prevented by moderate to vigorous physical activity.
Dr. Acharya added, “We are seeing an increase in the incidence of stroke due to Covid virus.”
Doctors, often advise their patients and society to adopt a healthy life style by regular exercise and dietary changes but somehow ignore their own health. They often have long working hours, sedentary life style and at times bad food habits. Health and fitness are key to a long, active and enjoyable life. It is correctly stated that HEALTH is the actual WEALTH that a person can retain. Regular exercise may keep our body 30-years younger.
