A former professional footballer, currently a fitness and lifestyle coach, and the co-founder of fitness studio, The Tribe – Karan Sawhney is a game-changer when it comes to training. In a world obsessed with fitness trends, he believes in a meticulous process rooted in consistency, dedication and visualisation. 

FL: Was there a moment when you realised your approach to fitness was carving its own lane, distinct from what already existed in India and globally?

KS: Most people train for fat loss. Over the past decade, I observed that the people who came to train with me left with higher energy levels that altered their mood and functioning throughout the day. I realised that while training, my clients have specific goals that have to do with looking a certain way but my main focus is on fueling better energy levels. 

FL: What do you reject in your industry, even if it sells or trends?

KS: I strictly reject tactics that claim to deliver quick results. The biggest example of this is crash diets and not taking recovery seriously. These things can harm one’s hormones and even mood in the long term. 

FL: At this stage in your career, what beliefs about fitness, the body, or performance are you actively unlearning or re-examining?

KS: Back when I was a professional football player, tracking technology was not as advanced and training was just about high intensity. However, now with fitness gadgets, biomarkers and even bloodwork, it is easier to have a personalised plan according to those results. If you do not have the right knowledge, diets and workouts can backfire at times. 

FL: What does success look like to you now, versus five years ago?

KS: Earlier, success was measured by an increasing number of clients, physical expansion of the studio across countries and cities. However, even though those goals remain the same, now it has become more about my clients’ life-changing journeys and transformation. As a coach, it’s not only physical transformation that matters but also emotional, mental and spiritual. 

FL: What do you hope people feel when they encounter your work?

KS: One of the main reasons why people keep returning to me, or my Tribe team is because they find a sense of belonging and familiarity. There is no intimidation, and we provide a safe environment that is high in energy. This kind of experience can help one show up better at their work, home and interpersonal relationships. 

FL: How has India’s evolving relationship with the body – between tradition, control, celebration, and beauty – shaped the way you approach movement and empowerment?

KS: Fitness in India is as old as time. This is the land of Yoga and Ayurveda. There is so much wisdom to know and understand. We bring such age-old practices and knowledge into today’s modern training. Even when it comes to injury prevention, rehab, and prehab, we pay special attention to understanding one’s own body and mind. Little things like conscious breathing while working out, and post-training visualising one’s dream body are practices that are often overlooked, but they help in achieving the best results. 

The Tastemaker Code

Tradition you keep returning to

My morning routine! A liter of water, a few push-ups and skipping. Followed by a cold shower, some sunlight and reading for at least ten minutes.

Rule you’re happy to break

In case of an injury, people are often suggested to take complete rest, but I believe in moving another part of the body or just breath work, followed by ample rest. 

A ritual you’re obsessed with right now

Visualisation after my workout session.

Currently reading / listening to

Right now, I am reading the Bhagavad Geeta and How to Talk to Anyone. I also love Andrew Huberman’s podcasts and Jack Canfield documentaries, who is one of my mentors. 

What People Get Wrong About My Work

That I only coach celebrities.