MS Dhoni’s advice for Gen Z, millennials: Why everyone needs to hear his message on fitness, health and his opinion about India’s carbohydrate-rich food culture

Former India captain and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni has often emphasised the importance of discipline, consistency and following a process rather than focusing solely on results. Known for his straightforward approach, the cricketer recently shared some valuable advice for people dealing with anxiety, emotional struggles and a lack of motivation.

At an event, Dhoni appeared alongside renowned lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar as well. Dhoni gave some really solid, straightforward advice and It’s not just for Gen Z, but for people of all ages. This advice is especially relevant in today’s time.

Dhoni responded by highlighting the importance of physical health, regular exercise and balanced eating habits. He also explained how sports can help young people develop resilience and learn to deal with both success and failure.

MS Dhoni On Changing Food Habits And Declining Physical Activity

Dhoni pointed out that India's traditional food habits developed around lifestyles that involved considerable physical labour. However, as daily routines have become increasingly difficult, the same dietary patterns may no longer suit everyone's activity levels.

"I will give them one piece of advice. I think it is about their health. If you look at India's food culture, depending on where you come from, it is still carbohydrate-rich. There was a reason behind this. Earlier, our daily lives involved a lot more physical hard work. Now, the same food habits have been transferred to the newer generation, but physical activity has gone down drastically.

"For example, the moment you come down from your flat, you take an auto or a cab. So you are basically sitting in a vehicle going to work and then sitting at a desk. Physical activity has gone down drastically," Dhoni said in the video.

The former cricketer also drew attention to the growing popularity of fast food and the consumption of sugary and fried items. According to him, these dietary choices can be particularly concerning for people who do not get enough physical activity.

"Secondly, when we were growing up, the culture of fast food was just starting in India. Now, it is at its peak. Sugary and fried foods are not good for health, especially if you are not very active. A very small segment of the country has become fitness-oriented, but we are not talking about that small segment. We are talking about the majority. I would advise them to participate in every sport in school. Sometimes you are gifted with talent, explore it. When you are 30 or 35, you will realise that you will have a better midlife," he added.

MS Dhoni Urges Youngsters To Prioritise Fitness

Dhoni also spoke about the responsibilities people take on as they grow older, including earning money, supporting their parents and providing for their children. However, he stressed that maintaining good health is equally important to managing these responsibilities.

He explained that physical fitness enables people to remain active and enjoy meaningful moments with their families, including playing with their children.

"Yes, we are all worried about our parents. We have to earn money and look after them. Then comes the stage when we have to earn money to take care of our children. But the whole point is whether you can play with your sons and daughters. For that, you need physical fitness.

"If I am physically fit, I can be happy in life. So the most important thing for the newer generation is to invest in themselves. If one can devote one hour to fitness and supplement it with simple food habits, it will be great," Dhoni said.

His advice focused on making fitness a regular part of everyday life rather than treating it as an occasional activity. He encouraged young people to dedicate time to exercise and complement it with simple, mindful food choices.

How Sports Can Teach Youngsters To Handle Success And Failure

Apart from physical health, Dhoni highlighted the life lessons that participation in sports can offer. He explained that losing a match allows players to identify their weaknesses, understand their mistakes and work towards improving their performance.

Similarly, winning teaches players how to handle success without losing sight of the need for continued effort and discipline.