One Man Army | Prithvee Mawla @Cafè Press

“There is no such days I don’t want to workout,” is the reply made by self-made gym guru, Prithvee Mawla. This up-and-coming 24-year-old entrepreneur is the founder of Shredded Army Dhaka and brand ambassador of the major fashion house O|Code. Prithvee’s journey to clean, healthy living stemmed from trying to find stability and confidence amid the chaos of a military upbringing. He changed school eight times, with each time becoming increasingly difficult to assimilate into established groups of friends as the newcomer. Prithvee’s childhood became even more so isolated when he came down with an illness that drove him into a deep depression. Feeling alone and dejected, Prithvee quickly began to gain weight. As he packed on the pounds with each day, he felt as he was slowly losing himself.

Finally, the future exercise enthusiast decided that it was time to take control of his life. Prithvee began by devouring every article he could find on workouts and eventually joined the Kurmitola Golf Gym. With just two treadmills and a few weights he began his quest. After gaining experience through trial-and-error for eight months he switched to Ruslan’s Studio where he found guidance and encouragement from professionals willing to train him. However, not having proper training from the beginning had its consequences. Prithvee explains that bad form can leave long-lasting injury as he experienced first-hand from enduring a herniated disk. Yet, the silver lining of this cloud came from his inspiration to help others avoid his mistakes, leading him to create Shredded Army Dhaka.

With thousands of followers, this Facebook group gives an opportunity for the Dhaka community to both motivate and teach each other by sharing stories and advice. Prithvee’s ultimate vision for Shredded Army Dhaka is to promote vigorous competition by hosting CrossFit in parks across the city. In an effort to further highlight the importance of diet in an overall lifestyle transformation, he has also opened two supplement stores. His emphasis on exercise and diet could not have come soon enough for a country ravaged by diabetes and heart disease. Many people attempt behavior modification with the best of intentions but ultimately fail due to lack of support and knowing when and how to start effectively. Shredded Army Dhaka fills in this gap of knowledge by educating, giving access to resources, and providing an active community to engage in and seek support from. It is always easier to make lifestyle changes with an experienced friend who understands the challenges, and Prithvee has become just that for clean living enthusiasts in Dhaka.

What are your favorite healthy restaurants around Dhaka city?

A:Ruslan's studio offers really healthy food serving organic dishes. Also, Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka poolside cafe carries many healthy dishes which is perfect after a quick swim at the pool.

Name a cheat meal you would love to have.
A:Bittersweet cafe blueberry cheesecake or Chocolate souffle. I also like the Chocolate mousse from Club Gelato.

Who do you look up to in the fitness world?
A:Sergi Constance
Lazar Angelov
Sadik Hadzovic
Jay Cutler
Ruslan M Hossain
Hitman Hart(Rafiqul Islam)
Shanin Al Nasir
Monzoor E Mawla