'Biggest Hurdle Is Always Mental': Saiyami Kher On Her Prep For Ironman Triathlon

Actor Saiyami Kher is now diving into a new challenge: Ironman Triathlon in Berlin this September, becoming the first Bollywood actor to tackle this formidable challenge.

As Saiyami gears up for one of the world's most gruelling triathlons, she continues to balance her demanding preparation while filming for her upcoming project. In an exclusive conversation with SheThePeople, Saiyami shared insights into her intense training regimen, her unwavering dedication, and her ambitious future goals.

Ironman Triathlon is a gruelling event featuring a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile marathon, totalling 140.6 miles, making it physically challenging hence, the actor revealed that the drive comes from a desire to continuously challenge herself and push her limits, saying, "I’ve been running marathons for a while, but Iron Man is on a whole different level. It’s the toughest challenge I’ve signed up for. Knowing this, it's not just about physical endurance; it’s about committing to a goal and seeing it through."

Balancing Intense Training with Filming Commitments

With just a few days remaining before the Ironman race, Saiyami is not only training intensely but also juggling filming for her upcoming project in Andhra Pradesh. Despite her demanding schedule, she remains committed to her preparation, rising early each morning before her call times to fit in bicycle rides and runs.

Commenting on her unwavering dedication,  "When I decided to take on this challenge, I knew it would be tough, especially with filming commitments. I’ve been training for six months, even while shooting for a film with Sunny Sir (Sunny Deol). So we had the sun, the sand, and the dust. I’ve come out covered in dust and sand, with car blasts and everything else happening around me, but I remain committed to my training routine." 

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“Biggest Hurdle Is Always Mental": Saiyami Kher On Ironman Triathlon Challenge

This journey is nothing without mental strength, as Saiyami revealed. "The biggest hurdle is always mental. The real challenge starts in the mind. If you decide to push through, your body will follow. Often, it's the mind that tells you you're too tired or that conditions are too harsh."

"Every day, I ask myself why I’m doing this, especially when I’m injured or exhausted. But overcoming these mental barriers is part of what keeps me motivated. It’s a way to clear my head and stay mentally fit.”

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Inspiring Women in Sports

Saiyami’s participation in the Ironman represents more than just personal achievement, it’s about breaking stereotypes and encouraging more women to embrace sports. "I’ve been trying for years to promote running and sports among women. The number of women in sports is still low, and I hope my involvement can inspire others," she said. 

"Even with a full-time career, consistent training can lead to high levels of endurance. I want to set an example and show that sports can be part of anyone's life."

When it comes to support, Saiyami emphasises the importance of self-reliance. "You are your biggest support. If you don’t back yourself, no one else can. It sounds a bit pompous, but that's the truth," she asserted.

Looking ahead, Saiyami plans to continue challenging herself and pursuing new goals. "I want to keep taking up new challenges every year. While films are a big part of my life, endurance sports are a passion that I want to keep exploring," she shared. She is also aiming to improve her marathon timing and tackle new athletic feats.

Regarding her inspiration from the recent Paris Olympics, Saiyami reflected her admiration for athletes like Neeraj Chopra, Lakshya Sen and Chirag Shetty.  "I follow the Olympics closely, and there are many incredible athletes who inspire me. Their dedication and achievements motivate me to push my own limits." Looking ahead, Saiyami also expressed her keen interest in the 2024 Paralympic Games, especially rooting for Palak Kohli in badminton. "I'm really keeping my fingers crossed for Palak and all the athletes starting their journey," she said.