Educated in the science of human movement from the university of Port Elizabeth, Reebok's Global Master Trainer, Jannie Claassen constantly strives to bring greater exposure and an understanding of the mind-body connection and integrative fitness. The managing director of Reebok Instructors Alliance, South Africa (the fitness arm of Reebok), Jannie is a consultant to many international Reebok markets such as Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, Korea and India. He spoke to Hansika Pal on the growing awareness of Indians towards their fitness, a development that spells business for his company. Are Indians getting more fitness conscious? During my first visit five years ago, I noticed very little health awareness. For instance, in places like Delhi and Mumbai I did not notice any fitness clubs or studios. After a gap of five years, I now notice there are a lot of fitness centres particularly in the metros and other large cities. The situation now is as different from the earlier one as day is from night. Studios are mushrooming and competition between businesses have started. Events such as workshops and a conventions have started. Last year, more than 90 instructors attended the Reebok resolution event in Mumbai, which would have not been possible five years ago. People in India are now realising that exercising is not just for disease prevention, but also for stress release. Where do you rank India vis-a-vis the developed countries as far as fitness awareness is concerned? Awareness in the health and fitness industry in India has grown manifold. India is coming on par with global standards. Five years ago, when we started the training programme in India, there were not many takers, but there is a big difference now. The growth in awareness has been tremendous. Although India's fitness industry is still in infancy, I would consider it healthy and promising. But more can be