A 24-year-old self-taught pastry chef and proud owner of a small-scale bakery in Davorlim, Durva Shirodkar, has won hearts with her twin impressive victories in female calisthenics endurance and female functional endurance at a recently held Street Workout Championship 2024 organised by Caliyog Fitness Club, Sangli.
Durva's journey began during the lockdown when she gained weight and lost confidence. To regain self-assurance, she joined a calisthenics gym in April 2022.
The supportive environment and effective training methods at Genesis transformed her perspective, leading to a newfound love for physical activity. She says, “It feels incredibly rewarding to achieve success in my first-ever calisthenics competition. It's a testament to the hard work, dedication, and support from my coaches and teammates. I'm grateful for the opportunity to compete and push myself to new limits.”
Calisthenics is bodyweight resistance training involving exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, squats and planks. It enhances strength, flexibility and coordination without requiring gym equipment. A versatile and effective method for building muscle, boosting endurance and improving overall fitness.
Durva describes how she was attracted to this style of workout. “What attracted me to calisthenics was the diversity of workouts, the opportunity to exercise outdoors, and the group dynamic that fosters motivation and pushes one to excel," she says.
Calisthenics is bodyweight resistance training involving exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, squats and planks. It enhances strength, flexibility and coordination without requiring gym equipment.
Her biggest inspiration comes from her parents, Ganaraj and Gauravi Shirodkar, who have consistently supported and encouraged her pursuit of dreams, instilling confidence and determination. In terms of advisors, she considers both her coach, Raj Missal, and her best friend, Pansy Pinto, as invaluable guides.
She shares, “Each of them has provided me with timeless advice that I hold close to my heart: 1) They taught me that in a competition, there are no losses, only wins and experiences. 2) They emphasised the importance of self-belief, reminding me that the greatest competition is within myself.”
Durva's training routine for endurance competitions is structured, consisting of circuits on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, followed by functional endurance training on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, incorporating cardio, core/abs, and leg workouts, and a comprehensive approach to fitness training.
Winning in both female calisthenics endurance and female functional endurance suggests a well-rounded fitness approach.
Durva describes how she balances strength and endurance training in her workout regimen saying, “I focus on incorporating a mix of both types of training throughout the week. For strength training, I include exercises like pull-ups, push-ups, parallel bar raises and other calisthenics movements that target specific muscle groups.
I focus on incorporating a mix of both types of training throughout the week. For strength training, I include exercises like pull-ups, push-ups, parallel bar raises and other calisthenics movements that target specific muscle groups
Durva Shirodkar
For endurance training, I integrate activities such as circuit workouts, functional movements and cardiovascular exercises like running, burpees, jumping jacks and circuit training. These activities help improve my stamina and endurance over longer durations.
By alternating between strength and endurance-focused workouts and ensuring proper rest and recovery, I'm able to achieve a balance that allows me to excel in both female calisthenics endurance and female functional endurance competitions.”
During the competitions, specific challenges were encountered by Durva, prompting strategic measures for victory. She explains, “One challenge was mental fatigue and maintaining focus throughout the demanding routines. To overcome this, I implemented mental training techniques such as meditation and positive self-talk to stay motivated and composed during each event.
To address physical fatigue, Durva focuses on proper nutrition, hydration, and rest after workouts.
Another challenge was physical fatigue. To address this, I focused on proper nutrition, hydration, and rest after workouts. Also, competing against skilled opponents presented its challenge. To overcome this, I remained confident in my abilities and focused on executing my training plan effectively. I also drew inspiration from the support of my coaches, friends and family, which helped boost my confidence and determination.”
Durva's favourite quote that keeps her motivated and optimistic throughout is from Paulo Coelho, "One day you will wake up and there won't be any more time to do things you've always wanted. Do it now." Female athletes, especially in calisthenics, are inspiring a new generation of fitness enthusiasts. Durva finds herself as an inspiration in empowering others, especially women, to pursue their fitness aspirations.
Durva's favourite quote that keeps her motivated and optimistic throughout is from Paulo Coelho, "One day you will wake up and there won't be any more time to do things you've always wanted. Do it now."
She remarks optimistically, “I aim to spread awareness that loving your body and prioritising fitness is essential for overall well-being, regardless of weight goals. Fitness should be embraced as a lifestyle, emphasising strength, health and self-confidence rather than focusing solely on weight gain or loss. By promoting this mindset, I hope to encourage others to adopt a positive and sustainable approach to fitness.”
I aim to spread awareness that loving your body and prioritising fitness is essential for overall well-being, regardless of weight goals. Fitness should be embraced as a lifestyle
Durva Shirodkar
She further speaks about her favourite athlete, “My favourite is Nicole Fernandes who’s truly an inspiration, showcasing incredible dedication and resilience by securing second place in the functional endurance competition at 53. Her ability to balance family, work, and fitness with such excellence is remarkable and serves as a shining example for all. I aspire to maintain if not more than her level of fitness and vitality as I age, drawing inspiration from her remarkable achievements.”
In reflecting on the challenging nature of the journey, Durva shares insights for everyone contemplating the path to success. She says, “I want to share with everyone that this journey is anything but easy. There will be moments of doubt and self-criticism, where giving up may seem like the easiest option."
However, it is during these times that we must dig deep within ourselves and find the strength to continue, she says and adds, "Remember, every obstacle encountered along the way ultimately transforms into a valuable learning experience, shaping us into stronger, more resilient individuals.”
When offering advice to those aspiring to excel in calisthenics, Durva emphasises the importance of consistency and perseverance by stating boldly, “Even on days you don’t feel like it, take one day at a time and you shall achieve your goals. Consistency is key, and every small effort adds up to significant results over time. Always remember the reason why you started the journey.”
