FACE TO
FACE WITH
CRICKETER
SURESH RAINA
HEALTH magazine meets with
cricketer Suresh Raina who attended
the Thumbay Hospital Spinal Health
Month campaign and discussed
fitness and cricket.
Q) What’s your key to
overcoming sports injuries?
Raina: A big reality of playing sports is the risk of injury.
In fact, when you play sports, you never really know
what’s going to happen next and overall, it can be very
unpredictable. However, your own physical stamina plays a
key role in overcoming injury and you should understand
your own system very well.
Q) What does spinal
health mean to you?
Raina: The spine is the body’s engine. Basically, a strong and
healthy back is critical for any athlete. If your spine is healthy,
you can play the game for a longer period of time.
Q) Have you ever had
to visit an orthopedist?
Raina: Yes, when I underwent a knee operation at age 19. As
a result, I couldn’t play cricket for one and a half years. The
pain was very severe and overall, that was a difficult time for
me, both mentally and physically. At the time, I was advised
by many people not to undergo the operation at such a young
age. However, I knew it was something my body required. I
met with a few doctors who were very supportive and helped
me get through it. In fact, that entire stage of my life was very
tough. However, I kept my spirits high and worked on
recovering and getting back to the game.
Q) How can a person stay mentally
strong in adverse situations?
Raina: Self-motivation is the key. Many of us deal
with adverse situations, but it’s very important to stay
positive and optimistic. Setback happens to everyone,
but it’s what we learn from it that helps us grow stronger
and move forward.
Q) In your opinion, what’s the link
between a healthy lifestyle and
excellent sportsmanship?
Raina: Without one, you cannot have the other.
Basically, I am on the field six hours a day. And while
fielding is risky, batting is even riskier because of the
ball’s speed. But being fit helps me both on the field and
off the field.
Q) What is some key advice you can
offer our readers?
Raina: Always have access to a very good personal
doctor to help maintain optimal health, as well as help
you and your family lead a healthy lifestyle. H
Mar/Apr 2016
47