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How an Epilepsy Diagnosis Didn’t Hold Aditya Back from Triathlon

Apr 18, 2025

From Seizures to Start Lines: The Inspiring Journey of Aditya Mehta

What would you do if you were told you couldn’t swim, drive or safely play sport—because of a medical diagnosis you received at just 4 years old?

For Aditya Mehta, the answer has always been: challenge it.

Diagnosed with epilepsy as a child, Aditya has faced seizures, setbacks and even a coma. But that didn’t stop him from becoming a passionate endurance athlete—completing multiple marathons, learning to swim as an adult, and competing in triathlons across Sprint, Olympic and Half Ironman distances.

His journey is one of grit, mindset, and the power of smart, consistent progress.

From Diagnosis to Determination

Aditya’s early years weren’t easy. Diagnosed with epilepsy at four, he spent much of his childhood managing seizures and the limitations that came with them. But in 2015, something shifted.

Inspired by the energy of the Mumbai Marathon, he signed up for his first half marathon—despite having no running background.

“I went to the coach and said, ‘I’ve never run in my life… but I want to do this.’”

That first event lit a fire. In his first year alone, he completed up to 10 races. Over time, he added full marathons, a 50km ultra run, and eventually two more sports to the mix.

The Unexpected Path to Triathlon

After finding his rhythm with running, Aditya picked up cycling in 2019. But the real challenge came next—swimming.

Swimming is often considered too risky for people with epilepsy due to the potential for seizures in the water. Aditya had never learned to swim as a child. But at age 32, he decided it was time.

“Limits are set in our minds. If you remove those, anything is possible.”

Learning to swim freestyle was slow, uncomfortable and at times overwhelming. But just three years later, he completed a 5km open water swim—an incredible achievement for any athlete, especially one facing additional risk factors.

Raising Awareness and Smashing Stigma

Aditya’s journey goes beyond the finish line. He’s also become an advocate for epilepsy awareness in India.

In March 2025, he helped organise Jiyo Samman Se, a run event with over 500 participants designed to educate the public and reduce the stigma surrounding epilepsy.

“Even if you have epilepsy, it’s completely fine. You can have a normal life—you can study, work, have a family, and even race.”

For many people with epilepsy who attended, it was the first time they felt seen, supported, and part of a community.

Why He Invested in Nutrition Education

Despite years of endurance training, Aditya reached a point where he knew something had to change.

“Triathlon is still a new sport in India. Most people don’t understand how to fuel for three sports, how to recover, or how to adjust based on the session. I needed the right knowledge.”

He joined the Triathlon Nutrition Academy in January to learn how to fuel and recover properly—especially with the hot, humid conditions he often trains in.

So far, his biggest takeaways have been:

How to adjust fuelling based on intensity and duration
Why recovery nutrition needs to be timed and specific
How to read food labels and make informed decisions
What to do when sports nutrition products aren’t widely available

Overcoming Nutrition Challenges in India

With limited access to commercial race fuel products, Aditya often relies on creative problem-solving - stocking up on gels and hydration products when travelling or asking friends to bring supplies.

He’s also experimented with making his own fuel options at home, including protein bars and snacks.

“What I love about TNA is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all plan. I’m learning how to build a system that works for me and fits with what’s available locally.”

Big Goals on the Horizon

Aditya has already ticked off a half marathon, a 110km cycling event, and a 5km ocean swim—all in early 2025.

His current focus? Ironman 70.3 Estonia in August—where he’s aiming for a sub-6-hour finish. From there, he’s considering training for a full Ironman.

“I love a challenge. I like to see what my body is capable of. But more than that, I want to inspire others to believe in their own strength.”

A Message for Anyone Facing Big Challenges

Whether you're dealing with epilepsy, struggling with confidence, or just trying to tick off your first triathlon finish line—Aditya’s message is clear:

“Don’t limit yourself. Be consistent, be curious, and surround yourself with the right support. Fear is only in the mind—remove it.”

Inspired by Aditya’s Story?

If you’re ready to stop winging it with your training nutrition and want to learn how to fuel smarter - now is the time.

Join the Triathlon Nutrition Academy and discover how to turn your nutrition into your secret weapon. Register your interest here