Indian Strength and Conditioning Coach Ankit Kaliyar Talks Fitness, Virat Kohli’s Influence, and the Yo-Yo Test
Ankit Kaliyar, a seasoned strength and conditioning coach with experience in guiding state-level cricketers and Ranji Trophy teams, delves into the world of cricket fitness. In an exclusive interview with TimesofIndia.com, Ankit sheds light on Virat Kohli’s unmatched fitness commitment, the intricacies of preparing individual schedules, and the importance of the challenging Yo-Yo Test in the modern cricket scenario.
Guiding Indian Athletes
Having worked closely with the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand, Delhi, and UPCA, Ankit Kaliyar has been a pivotal figure in shaping the fitness routines of both domestic and national cricketers. He shares his experience of training players who represent India, including those in the IPL, offering a unique perspective on the fitness demands of high-level cricket.
Acknowledging Virat Kohli as the fittest player globally, Ankit attributes this distinction to Kohli’s unwavering dedication. Kohli’s commitment to a strict schedule, encompassing nutrition, training, supplementation, and conditioning, sets him apart. Ankit emphasizes how Kohli’s disciplined approach has created a culture of fitness in the Indian cricket team.
Ankit elaborates on the meticulous process of creating individual schedules for cricketers based on their positions and playing styles. Whether it’s a fast bowler, batsman, fielder, or keeper, each player undergoes a tailored program. The coach considers factors like lifestyle, daily routines, and physical capabilities to design effective training modules.
The Yo-Yo Test, an essential component of a cricketer’s endurance assessment, is explained by Ankit. He elucidates its relevance in replicating on-field scenarios where quick reactions and short intervals are crucial. The test gauges a player’s ability to maintain performance during high-intensity situations, particularly in fielding and running between the wickets.
Virat Kohli’s Influence on Team Fitness
Ankit highlights Virat Kohli’s role in elevating the fitness standards of the Indian cricket team. Kohli’s leadership has instilled confidence and discipline, making fitness a paramount parameter for success. The fitness culture cultivated by Kohli has become a benchmark, inspiring other players to prioritize physical well-being.
Ankit observes that young talent Shubman Gill is not only fit but also skillful, drawing inspiration from Virat Kohli. He predicts a bright future for Gill, foreseeing him making significant contributions to Indian cricket in the years to come.
Ankit dispels the notion that the Yo-Yo test is a simple hurdle, emphasizing that it requires months of dedicated practice. He underscores the importance of consistency, training, and stamina-building in successfully clearing the endurance test. In the current cricket landscape, where players participate in over 100 matches annually, fitness has become a top priority to manage the rigorous schedule effectively.
Ankit addresses the perception that some players, though bulky, possess remarkable agility and mobility. While acknowledging exceptions, he emphasizes that the majority of players must work diligently to maintain fitness, highlighting the evolving focus on physical well-being in contemporary cricket.
