“Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will” - Mahatma Gandhi.
This quote perfectly encapsulates the journey of Kaushey Shukla, a man who embodies resilience and determination. From a young age, Kaushey found his passion in Taekwondo, a sport that demanded discipline and grit.
However, life threw a significant challenge his way when he contracted COVID-19. Despite severe health setbacks, Kaushey’s indomitable will led him on a transformative journey to regain his fitness and reclaim his life.
Journey in Taekwondo
Kaushey Shukla’s Taekwondo journey started under Dynamic Warrior Academy in 2007. As a kid, he was a quick study towards sports; the Taekwondo state championship was around the month when he started his fight classes. It was still early in his career, and he relays that he didn’t even have his uniform back then, as it took at least up to 10 days for the uniform to arrive. He had to borrow someone else’s uniform to fight in his first state championship, where he lost to a blue-belt opponent who was the state champion in his weight category.
Kaushey relays from taking up the match. “I was heavily said no by the students, teachers, coaches, and professionals as I was a student of the game and also new towards thinking about taekwondo, but I still insisted on going and losing the first fight.”
However, he made significant progress under the guidance of professional coaches and mentors. The following year, he faced tough competitions and emerged victorious in three fights by knockout and one with a technical win.
2009 marked a turning point when he participated in three different championships: state, school games, and federation championships. He had multiple district and state medals and wins between 2010 and 2014, despite setbacks like injuries and close losses at national levels.
Highlights of his career include winning bronze at the West Zone’s taekwondo championships, achieving his black belt dan 1 in 2012, and being recognized under a government scheme for his achievements. By 2014, Kaushey had cemented his status with Taekwondo as a sportsperson and contributed to women’s defense through government programs in the following year, also as a member of Dynamic Warrior, which was known for its lead academy of Gujarat of Kick Boxing, Taekwondo, Mix-martial arts.
The Power of Taekwondo
Taekwondo, the most dynamic and physically demanding Olympic sport, has seen many athletes undertake remarkable journeys. Kaushay Shukla’s dedication to Taekwondo has significantly shaped his resilience and transformation. The sport’s Olympic status and global standardization instilled confidence and a sense of achievement in him. Starting young, Taekwondo’s full-body contact nature helped him enhance his self-defense skills and fitness, which were vital for his post-COVID-19 recovery.
The emphasis on powerful kicking techniques engaged his largest muscles, boosting his physical condition. The consistent rules across over 150 countries provided a supportive, worldwide community, reinforcing his discipline and perseverance.
Taekwondo’s confidence, self-defense, and global unity principles have been key to Kaushay’s journey, guiding him through challenges and helping him emerge stronger.
Impact of COVID-19
In 2015, Kaushey decided to put his Taekwondo career on hold to focus on his studies in biotechnology. His dedication paid off, and he eventually earned an M.Tech in the field of Biotechnology.
However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought unforeseen challenges. Contracting the virus in 2021, Kaushey experienced severe symptoms that took a toll on his health and fitness.
The COVID-19 pandemic had profound impacts on athletes worldwide, causing millions of deaths and leading to severe health repercussions, including vital organ failures, notably heart failures, even after recovery. This epi-pandemic period led to a two-year gap worldwide. However, advancements in biotechnology and vaccines eventually allowed for a rebound. The pandemic also changed motivation, responsibility, and attitudes among athletes.
After his post-graduation, Kaushey reflected on his deteriorating fitness and decided it was time to bring back the discipline of his younger years. The recovery process was gruelling. The virus had significantly weakened his overall physical condition. Kaushey faced physical limitations and emotional struggles, but his Taekwondo background provided a foundation of discipline and resilience that became crucial in his fight back to health.
Decision to Regain Fitness
Kaushey’s path to recovery was multifaceted. He reintroduced a structured fitness regimen into his life, starting with morning gym sessions to rebuild his strength and endurance. Complementing his physical workouts, Kaushey attended regular physiotherapy sessions to address the lingering effects of the virus.
During this time, he adhered to a diet plan advised by nutritional experts, blending it with the 2014 government program for sports scholarship diets. Additionally, he underwent ongoing physiotherapy with FITT by Anmol, a 3rd Dan sports physiotherapist, ensuring his return to his previous physical fitness. Kaushey Shukla’s journey, marked by early defeats, subsequent victories, and adaptability during the pandemic, showcases the determination and evolution of a taekwondo athlete.
Kaushey adopted a balanced nutritional plan rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals to support his body’s healing process. This holistic approach to recovery, combining physical training, physiotherapy, and diet, was instrumental in his transformation.
Physiotherapy also played a vital role. Specific therapies and exercises to improve overall muscle strength were particularly beneficial. His daily routine is a blend of rigorous physical training, strict dietary adherence, and regular physiotherapy sessions tailored to accelerate his recovery.
Overcoming Obstacles
The journey back to fitness was not without its challenges. Kaushey faced moments of doubt and discouragement, but his unwavering determination saw him through.
As a child, Kaushey sought guidance from various mentors, building a strong foundation in fitness and health. He advises those struggling with fitness, such as recovering from COVID-19, to set small, achievable goals and gradually progress to more strenuous activities.
Kaushey aims to return to competitive Taekwondo soon and hopes to regain his previous headspace. He also plans to pursue a PhD and secure a government scholarship to support his passions. His message is clear: “Always win with fitness over sickness.”
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