Dr. Rayhan Shahidullah: The Bengali Entrepreneur Balancing Medicine & Fitness

In a world where the boundaries between professions are increasingly blurred, Dr. Rayhan Shahidullah is a remarkable example of a medical professional who has dedicated his life to healing and seamlessly integrated his passion for fitness and wellness into his entrepreneurial venture. In an exclusive interview with Tinds, we embark on a journey to explore the roots of Dr Rayhan Shahidullah, the owner of ND Activewear and a fitness coach, to glimpse the formative years that have shaped his unique perspective and life journey. 

Tinds: Can you share the story of your birthplace and paint a vivid picture of your childhood?

Rayhan: I grew up in a small town called Chandpur, where I completed my high school education. I lived in a joint family with many children, so most of my time was spent playing different sports or swimming. My childhood was characterized by being an active kid.

Tinds: If you had to sum yourself up in three words, what would they be?

Rayhan: Ambitious, hardworking, and organized.

Tinds: Your journey into becoming a doctor is intriguing. Could you shed some light on your academic path and experiences?

Rayhan: Growing up in a family of doctors, I was always passionate about becoming one. My years in medical college were the best time of my academic life. After graduating from medical college, I initially aspired to become a surgeon, but during my internship and postgraduate training, my passion for medicine grew stronger. I later decided to specialize in internal medicine, nutrition, and sports medicine.

Tinds: What ignited your unwavering passion for fitness?

Rayhan: A desire for a healthier and more energetic life.

Tinds: Let’s Dive into the origins of your involvement in the activewear industry. Enlighten us a little about your journey’s humble beginnings.

Rayhan: My journey in the activewear industry began with the help of my best friend, Shazid Rahman. He shared a passion for fitness and recognized a gap in the market for high-quality, stylish activewear. So, Shazid and I started creating workout clothes from scratch, and as demand grew, we transformed our shared passion into a successful business. It all started with a vision and determination to offer functional and fashionable activewear for fitness enthusiasts like us.

Tinds: What’s occupying most of your time and energy in this bustling chapter of your life?

Rayhan: My business venture is one of the central focuses of my life at this juncture, demanding most of my time and energy. I’m fully committed to its growth and constantly seeking opportunities for innovation within the activewear realm.

Tinds: Reflecting on your entrepreneurial journey, what obstacles did you overcome to reach this point?

Rayhan: I encountered several significant obstacles in reaching this point. These challenges included securing funding, navigating industry competition, balancing my medical career, and overcoming self-doubt. Each hurdle provided growth and learning opportunities, ultimately contributing to my success today.

Tinds: Regarding ND Activewear, what exciting plans do you have on the horizon?

Rayhan: We have an exciting array of plans coming up ahead. We look forward to expanding our product line, researching sustainable and eco-friendly materials, and bolstering our local and international presence. Furthermore, we actively pursue collaborations to introduce fresh and innovative designs to our customers. Stay tuned for some thrilling developments in the world of ND Activewear!

Tinds: From a doctor’s point of view, what’s your take on the usual gym goers depending on supplements?

Rayhan: Supplements can be helpful for gym goers for faster results, like whey protein, creatine, multivitamins, etc, but they should be used in moderation. I would not recommend people before the age of 18 to consume supplements, and anybody who does should do it under the supervision of a healthcare professional or a proper fitness coach.

Tinds: Why would you recommend someone to start working out? Apart from physical benefits.

Rayhan: Apart from physical benefits, it helps with stress management and teaches a person to become more organized and disciplined. 

Tinds: What invaluable advice would you offer for those aspiring to embark on a fitness journey?

Rayhan: For those aspiring to embark on a fitness journey, my advice is to start gradually, set realistic goals, and stay consistent. Listen to your body, prioritize proper Nutrition and recovery, and seek support or guidance when needed. Progress may be slow, but every step forward counts, and the journey is enriching.