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My Competition Journey: Type-1 Diabetic Bodybuilding Prep

bySahil BaggaAvailable across Delhi; Trains at gyms in Rajouri Garden & Subhash NagarStarts from3,000 per monthView full gallery

This is the real work behind the stage lights. Managing insulin, hitting macros during a cut, and pushing for that Mr. India stage, all while living with Type-1 diabetes.

A proud moment receiving the silver medal at a Mr. India competition. This trophy represents countless hours of disciplined training and diet, proving that hard work pays off.

Backstage after a competition. Even with my competitor number on, the fact that I am a Type-1 diabetic is invisible to the judges. It's all about condition and hard work.

Walking the stage at the Sheru Classic, one of India's top bodybuilding shows. Competing at this level requires peak physical and mental conditioning.

A side view from the IHFF stage. Every angle is judged, so total body symmetry and definition are key, which we achieve through targeted training programs.

Posing under the bright lights for the judges and the crowd. Stage presence is part of the sport, and it comes from confidence in your preparation.

Backstage with my fellow competitors at the Indian Physique Alliance event. The camaraderie and respect in the sport are a huge part of the experience.

Celebrating a victory backstage. These moments are the culmination of months of dedication, and they fuel the fire for the next challenge.

Meeting fans and athletes at the Sheru Classic expo. It's always great to connect with others who share a passion for fitness and bodybuilding.

With fellow bodybuilder "Indian Rock". The fitness community is full of inspiring individuals, and we push each other to be better.

A memorable moment meeting the legendary IFBB pro bodybuilder, Flex Wheeler. Learning from the greats is an essential part of growth in this sport.

About My Competition Journey

On stage, you only see the tan and the veins. You do not see the glucose sensor under my skin or the precise insulin units I had to calculate just to make sure I did not crash during the posing routine. My contest prep is built on that kind of micro-management, not just training for the camera. If you want to step on stage, you need to understand how your body actually responds to stress, not just what the magazines say.

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