3 min readNew DelhiMar 16, 2026 06:00 AM IST
Building Strong Foundations: The Importance of Leg Training in Fitness
In the world of fitness, maintaining a robust and functional body is key to overall wellbeing. Recently, Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, 64, shared his experience with retired cricketer Sir Viv Richards, whose emphasis on fitness deeply inspired him. During a conversation with podcaster Raj Shamani, Shetty stressed the importance of fitness from an early age, illustrating how Richards’ insights propelled him to adopt a comprehensive approach to strength training.
Shetty recalled an impactful moment with Richards, who challenged the stereotype that larger athletes lack athleticism. “He told me that he could hit the ball harder than anyone, regardless of his size. This resonated with me, and I started focusing on weight training and functional exercises,” Shetty explained.
Here’s what you should consider (Photo: AI-generated)
The emphasis on leg strength is vital for anyone looking to enhance their fitness journey. Lower body exercises target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, which are some of the largest muscle groups in the body. Consulting with expert dietitian and fitness consultant Garima Goyal, we learned that training these muscle groups not only enhances physical performance but also fosters long-term health benefits.
“Strong legs improve posture, stability, and mobility. Compound movements like squats and lunges engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, enhancing coordination and overall strength,” Goyal explained. “This holistic training approach can help in sustaining knee, hip, and lower back health through daily activities.”
Furthermore, building leg muscle can significantly boost metabolic health. Goyal notes, “Larger muscle groups consume more energy, leading to increased calorie burn and improved insulin sensitivity. This makes lower-body training crucial for not just athletic performance but also for sustaining a healthy body composition.”
In addition to fitness advantages, improved lower body strength plays a key role in injury prevention. “Strong glutes and hamstrings stabilize the pelvis and spine, alleviating strain on the lower back,” Goyal explained. This is particularly important as we age, as maintaining leg strength helps ensure better balance and lowers the risk of falls.
To build sustainable strength, consistency is vital. “Instead of fixating on short-term fitness goals, focusing on foundational muscle groups like the legs will boost endurance, mobility, and resilience over time,” Goyal emphasized.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or experts consulted. Always consult a health practitioner before starting any fitness routine.
Conclusion: Embrace Functional Strength for Long-Term Health
Incorporating leg training into your fitness routine is not just about aesthetics; it is foundational for maintaining an active lifestyle. Strengthening your legs can enhance overall performance, boost metabolic health, and help prevent injuries as you age. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete, remember that consistency is key in building a strong, resilient body. Start focusing on your legs today, and you may not only see physical improvements but also experience a boost in everyday functionality and wellbeing.
