Mind Over Money: 10,000 steps to success — Akshay Chinchalkar's journey to fitness and productivity

Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities, exemplifies the perfect balance between a high-pressure leadership role and a disciplined approach to health and fitness.

Inspired by the wake-up call of the COVID-19 crisis, Akshay Chinchalkar transformed his daily routine, prioritizing his well-being alongside professional excellence, as he shared in an interview with ETMarkets Mind Over Money.

From consistently walking 10,000 steps a day to hitting the gym four times a week, his journey underscores the importance of small, consistent actions in achieving lasting results.

With a philosophy rooted in mindfulness, time management, and healthy living, Akshay demonstrates how simple choices—like mindful eating, structured workouts, and calming routines like listening to old Hindi melodies—can enhance productivity and mental clarity.

Edited Excerpts –

Q) How do you ensure consistency in achieving your goal of walking 10,000 steps daily, even with a demanding role as Head of Research?

A) Undoubtedly, it all starts with a positive mindset. Like many others, the COVID crisis was a wake-up call for me to prioritize my health. At first, the idea of walking 10,000 steps daily seemed overwhelming. However, I found that effective time management made it achievable. By structuring my day thoughtfully, I've been able to hit this goal consistently, no matter how packed my schedule gets.

Q) What motivates you to maintain such a disciplined approach to fitness and health?

A) I believe that health is the cornerstone of every aspect of life - personal, professional, and beyond. When you prioritize your well-being, everything else naturally falls into place. For me, it's not one-time efforts; it's about the power of small, consistent actions. Whether it's taking the stairs instead of the elevator, making time for a quick walk amidst a busy schedule, or choosing nutritious meals, these simple choices make a huge difference and lead to lasting results. Focusing on steady progress rather than perfection keeps me motivated to stay disciplined towards fitness.

Q) How do you manage to hit the gym four times a week while leading the research team at Axis Securities?

A) Balancing fitness and a demanding leadership role isn't easy, but for me, planning the day with precision is key. My schedule reflects more than just research - it's a mix of strategy, execution, and forward-thinking. Being an early riser gives me a head start. I start my day at work very early and dedicate the first three hours to tackling the most critical tasks. This approach allows me to address high-priority projects when my energy and concentration are at their peak. By front-loading my work, I create mental space for idea generation and planning for the next day as the day progresses.

I believe in setting clear boundaries for my workday, ensuring that tasks and priorities are completed efficiently and within the timeframe. This discipline allows me to invest time for myself, which is just as important as delivering results at work. Hitting the gym is one way I recharge - it keeps me energized, focused, and motivated. This balance not only supports my physical fitness but also enhances my ability to lead effectively, think creatively, and stay sharp for the challenges ahead.

Q) Do you follow a specific workout regimen, and how has it contributed to your overall productivity?

A) Absolutely, and it's all about sticking to a plan! Everything is mapped out in advance - from scheduling my gym time to deciding the duration and focus of each workout. Some might find this level of routine tedious, but for me, it's a strategy that delivers results. This consistency not only keeps me on track physically but also enhances my mental clarity and focus, which directly contributes to my productivity.

Q) What is your philosophy when it comes to healthy eating, and do you follow any particular diet?

A) My philosophy is simple: stop eating when you feel comfortably full rather than overindulging. It's all about balance and listening to your body. My diet focuses on being protein-heavy, with enough carbs to fuel my day and minimal sugar to keep things clean. Dinner, on the other hand, is usually light - mostly fluids, and I make it a point to have it at least two hours before bedtime. It's a routine that keeps me energized, focused, and feeling light.

Q) Can you share some quick, healthy meal ideas that work well for professionals with a hectic schedule?

A) The first step is understanding your body and its needs. Ask yourself what your goals are - whether it's weight loss, muscle gain, or simply feeling more energized. Every individual is different, so tailor your approach accordingly. To start your day right, have a glass of lukewarm water as soon as you wake up, and make sure you're hitting your daily nutrient requirements based on your body type and goals. Your body is unique, so treat it that way. If you have a sweet tooth, the best time to enjoy dessert is right after lunch, when your body is primed for digestion. And always remember, portion control is key - it's not about restricting yourself, but about finding balance. With a little planning, healthy meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming.

Q) In a high-pressure environment like financial research, how do you stay true to your goal of not stressing over things?

A) I don't really see financial research as a high-pressure job- at least not for me. After nearly two decades in the field, I've learned to keep things in perspective. Every problem has a solution, so stressing over them doesn't help. Even when something seems like a big problem at first, I remind myself that it's manageable. Listening to old Hindi melodies is one of my go-to strategies for staying calm. There's something about the soothing tunes that help me clear my mind, relax, and approach the situation with a fresh, focused perspective. It's a simple habit that keeps me grounded and ready to find solutions.

Q) Do you have any techniques or practices, such as mindfulness or meditation, that help you stay calm under pressure?

A) For me, mindfulness is a real game-changer. After being in this business for so long, I’ve realized that keeping a calm mind is incredibly powerful. It’s about training yourself to focus and push through challenges without getting overwhelmed by the pressure. When you can stay grounded and focused, it really helps you handle anything that comes your way. I try to take a step back when things feel hectic, even if it’s just for a few moments, to reset and get my head back in the game. It’s these little pauses that make all the difference.

Q) Why did you choose tennis as your next goal, and how do you plan to integrate it into your routine?

A) I’ve been inspired by a few people around me who’ve shared how tennis has made a positive difference in their professional lives. Their experiences got me thinking about trying it for myself. It also takes me back to a trip to Nepal about a decade ago, where I played tennis with a colleague. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it and how well I did, especially since my only previous experience with tennis was watching it on TV and playing on my PlayStation! That moment made me think I should give it another try. Now, the goal is not only to have fun but also to get into better shape. Tennis is a great way to have fun while reaping the fitness benefits.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by experts are their own. These do not represent the views of the Economic Times)