HOW I KEEP HEALTHY: Running on Precision
Medicover Hospital Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon Dr. According to Kishor Kumar, fitness is not a lifestyle trend but a professional discipline. In a field where every decision requires precision and every move carries consequences, physical stamina and mental clarity are as critical as surgical skill.
His job as a neurosurgeon requires long hours of intense focus, steady hands, and unwavering concentration. “To meet these demands, I follow a structured routine that includes regular workouts and cycling, along with marathon and half-marathon runs, and ensure I stay active at least three to four times a week to maintain both endurance and cognitive acuity,” says Dr Kumar.
“Maintaining optimal physical and mental condition is a professional imperative,” he adds. “Running, in particular, is the cornerstone of my regimen. Aerobic exercise improves cerebral blood flow, ensuring the brain receives a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients. This supports neuronal function and promotes neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections.”
From a clinical perspective, the advantages of running extend far beyond personal fitness. “Regular physical activity reduces the risk of neurological disorders such as stroke, neurodegenerative disorders and chronic pain syndromes. It also helps regulate mood and reduce stress, anxiety and depression by stimulating the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine,” he says. These are common challenges in neurological patients, making exercise an important complement to treatment.
According to Dr Kumar, endurance events are about improving endurance, which carries over to the operating room. “Endurance training improves physical endurance and mental discipline, both of which are essential in high-pressure environments. Cardiovascular health, which is closely linked to brain function, is also improved by consistent running, reducing risks such as hypertension, diabetes and obesity.”
Equally important is the impact on mental well-being. Long distance running requires discipline, consistency and perseverance; These are qualities that reflect the demands of neurosurgery. “Running allows me to step away, recalibrate, and come back with clarity,” she notes.
While running remains her center, her routine is balanced with strength training and cycling. “Strength training supports endurance for long hours in the operating room, while cycling provides a low-impact cardiovascular alternative. This combination provides overall conditioning while minimizing the risk of injury,” he says.
Beyond personal benefit, Dr Kumar believes doctors should lead by example. “When patients see their doctors prioritize fitness, it reinforces the importance of a healthy lifestyle and encourages them to adopt similar habits.”
In an age where preventive health is gaining importance, this example becomes an extension of patient care. He emphasizes that regular physical activity remains one of the simplest and most effective strategies for long-term well-being.
