Meet India’s Leading Male Athlete Influencers Who Are Inspiring Us to Get Fit

Fitness has evolved from a simple form of exercise to a lifestyle and a movement across India. With an ever-growing number of people lacing up their shoes, these passionate Indian male athlete influencers are leading the charge. Not just by breaking records, but by motivating others to take their first step, share their struggles, and push through their limits. Whether you’re just starting or are already a seasoned runner, these Indian male athlete influencers will provide you with the motivation you need to keep moving.

Here’s a look at the top Indian running influencers who have inspired millions and continue to push the limits of endurance.

Amar Singh Devanda: Running Beyond Limits

Amar Singh Devanda is a true example of how determination and hard work can lead to international success. Hailing from Cheethwari, Jaipur, Amar started his running journey in 2016 with no sports background. In 2024, Amar took the world by storm when he won gold at the IAU 24-hour Asia & Oceania Championship in Canberra. He covered an incredible 272.537 km, setting a new Indian record. This wasn’t the first time he grabbed gold; he also won in 2022 with a distance of 257.618 km.

Personal Bests:

• 100 km: 7 hours 27 minutes 51 seconds
• 100 miles: 14 hours 28 minutes 15 seconds
• 12-hour run: 140.8 km

Follow his journey: Amar Singh Devanda

Ramanjit Singh Oberoi: Proving Age is Just a Number

Age is no obstacle for Ramanjit Singh Oberoi, who discovered his love for marathon running at 52. Born in 1958, Ramanjit transitioned from a career in banking and security services to becoming one of the most well-known marathoners in India. Since then, he completed over 120 full marathons, 95 half marathons, and 10 ultramarathons. He is on a mission to earn the coveted Six Star Medal by completing all six World Marathon Majors, with Boston, Berlin, and New York already under his belt.

Some of his impressive feats:

• The 100 km Mumbai Ultra
• The 87 km Comrades Marathon in South Africa (completed in 9 hours and 25 minutes)
• At 65, he secured first place in his age category at the 72 km Khardung La Challenge in Ladakh, finishing in 11 hours and 43 minutes.

Ramanjit is also passionate about promoting fitness and health and organised the “STAY FIT RUN” marathon in Noida, Delhi NCR, in 2024, inspiring people of all ages to live healthier lifestyles.

Follow him: Ramanjit Singh Oberoi.

Sarthak Malani – Ultramarathon Runner & Mental Health Advocate

Sarthak Malani is more than just an ultramarathoner; he is a mental health advocate who uses his running journey to raise awareness and support others dealing with mental health issues. In August 2020, Sarthak ran 74 km in 12 hours within his residential society in Ahmedabad to raise awareness about mental health, a cause he holds close to his heart. Having battled Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Sarthak uses his platform to advocate for early intervention and fight the stigma surrounding mental health.

He is also known for his unique retro running style (running backwards). After an injury, he used retro running as a rehabilitation method and completed his first backwards half marathon in 2015. In 2024, he completed an extraordinary 100 km ultra-run from Porbandar to Veraval while running without traditional shoes, embracing minimalist footwear.

Follow his journey: Sarthak Malani

Jitendra Advani – Passionate Runner & Fitness Enthusiast

Jitendra Advani is a prominent figure in India’s running community. He is known for his enthusiasm and dedication to fitness. A passionate marathoner, he promotes consistency, discipline, and goal-setting. Balancing a successful corporate career with his love for running, Jitendra is an active mentor at Times Runners, a prominent running group in New Delhi. His story of transformation from a beginner to a seasoned marathoner has inspired thousands to take up running.

Jitendra fills his social media with training tips, race experiences, and motivational insights that help runners of all levels.

Follow him: Jitendra Advani.

Girish Bindra – Passionate Runner & Fitness Enthusiast

Girish Bindra, based in Mumbai, has earned a reputation as one of the most committed runners in the Indian community. He participates in marathons and ultramarathons, showcasing his endurance and commitment to a healthy lifestyle. He also promotes the running culture through his involvement with events like the Wilson Ultramarathon, Chandigarh Fast Marathon, and Jupiter Running Club. Beyond his personal achievements, Girish uses his social media to motivate and guide aspiring runners on their own fitness journeys.

Follow him for tips, fitness motivation, and race updates: Girish Bindra.

Ordinary Men, Extraordinary Athletes

These male athlete influencers are more than just famous figures. They are motivational mantras pushing human endurance while inspiring millions to live healthier lives. They share insights on their training routines, mental toughness, and personal stories through social media, making fitness more approachable and attainable for everyone.

Feel free to explore their journeys and don’t forget to check out The Reelstars for more insightful and inspiring reads.