The human body is nature's most wonderful creation and its functions are always taken for granted. But when there is a complete or partial loss of any function of the body, due to any disease or injury, simple activities like eating, walking, hearing, seeing, etc. become difficult or even impossible, which otherwise are performed as a reflex action. Disability, like any other disease does not call for panic, but requires to be tackled on its manifestations. Apart from methodology adapted with a specialist's help to negotiate the problem, it is the determination; endeavor and a positive approach that will help you to first accept and then face the reality.

A few years ago I desperately needed an occupation to earn my living. After exploring various avenues I opted for aerobics as my profession. Watching Veena Merchant in her �Keep Fit' programme on TV, further influenced my decision. This way I thought I would keep myself and help others to be physically fit. Then I contacted Ms Merchant, who was initially reluctant, as she had never known nor ever taught aerobics to a sightless person, in India or abroad. Eventually, she agreed after my repeated visits and consistent persuasion to take me on as her student. As I was her first blind trainee, new methods were devised by her for teaching me. It was an arduous task for both of us, but we soon discovered we were doing fairly well.

On the very first day I fainted within ten minutes of the workout. With unaccustomed muscles and added vision problem my movements were restricted. Three hours of vigorous exercises each day, exhausted me and at night, I slumped into bed with my body hurting all over especially in my knees. But I did not give up and continued with the regime, till I mastered all the exercises. Within six months I was ready to open my own aerobic center, and in a week's time my class was full of students. I had finally accomplished what I had set my heart on and was reminded of Richard Evan's quotation �Do not life discourage you; everyone who got where he is had to begin where he was.'

I feel physical fitness is important for everyone, more so for a visually impaired, as the fear of losing contact with the ground or the wall, induces deep rooted complex of falling. Therefore usually, most people with vision problem have robot-like stiff bodies, and hesitant movements. This may affect their appearance, but not necessarily alter their capabilities. Also physical fitness is significant for a sightless person developing well trained muscles and sharp reflexes, to make the movements easy, balanced and clear, thus avoiding an otherwise sure fall. The physical fitness programme to be followed depends on an individual's capacity and interest.