Srinagar, Mar 05 (KNO): With the ongoing month of Ramadan, Kashmiri athletes see this period as more than just a time of fasting, but a phase of mental and physical transformation.
Most players consider fasting increases discipline, flexibility, and concentration, on as well as off the ground.
Among the individuals contacted by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), one was Mufti Ahmad, a Pencak Silat player, who shared that fasting increases endurance as well as endurance.
“By abstaining from food and water from dawn to sunset, we train our bodies and minds to endure challenges. It teaches us self-control, discipline, and strengthens our faith,” he said. Ahmad added that Ramadan shifts an athlete’s mindset towards self-awareness and reliance on Allah.
Tabish Mushtaq, a professional Thang-Ta player, emphasized the importance of patience during fasting. “We have to control our desires, stay calm, and avoid arguments. When we take care of the little things, we grow stronger in our game and life,” he said.
Additionally, Rutba, a female Kun Bokator martial artist, described fasting as a way to purify both the body and mind. “It helps me connect with myself, making me more determined in my game,” she said.
Wahid, a football player, said Ramadan builds psychological strength. “If I can train and play matches while fasting, I can handle any tough situation on the field,” he said.
Meanwhile, Rayees Ahmad, a coach and sportsman, believes fasting improves an athlete’s ability to stay calm under pressure. “Fasting teaches patience and self-control, which are essential for any athlete,” he noted.
Regarding the scientific backing on fasting and athletic performance, a study published in the ‘British Journal of Sports Medicine’ suggests that while Ramadan fasting can impact anaerobic performance, endurance and strength training can be maintained with proper diet and hydration.
Another review in ‘Frontiers in Psychology’ found that fasting influences cognitive and physical performance differently depending on the time of day. Additionally, a paper in the ‘International Journal of Physical Education, Sports and Health’ highlights that fasting athletes must adjust training schedules and nutritional intake to maintain performance levels—(KNO)