How Milind Soman stays lean, energetic and marathon-ready at 60 with NO conventional fitness trends
When Milind Soman recently completed a challenging swim from Europe to Africa at the age of 60, he once again demonstrated why he remains one of India’s most admired fitness icons. While many people associate staying fit with intense gym sessions and expensive supplements, the actor-model has built his remarkable endurance on a far simpler foundation: consistency, natural movement and wholesome food.Known for films such as ‘Bheja Fry’, ‘Bajirao Mastani’ and ‘Chef’, Soman has spent decades championing a lifestyle that prioritises health over appearance. Even today, his fitness philosophy remains refreshingly uncomplicated.For Milind Soman, exercise is not about sculpting the perfect body but about maintaining the freedom to move, explore and challenge oneself. Whether he is participating in marathons, cycling long distances or swimming across open waters, his focus has always been on building functional strength.In a conversation with TOI, Soman revealed that he has never depended on a conventional gym setup to stay fit. “I don’t use equipment.” He further explained that despite being considered one of the fittest celebrities in the country, his daily workout routine is surprisingly brief.“I make sure I exercise everyday. People consider me really fit but I only exercise for 10-15 minutes everyday.” Rather than spending hours lifting weights, Soman believes regular movement is more important than lengthy workout sessions. On days when he feels particularly energetic, he may increase the intensity or perform multiple sets of exercises outdoors.
The power of running and bodyweight training
A quick look at Soman’s social media accounts reveals his love for endurance sports. Running remains one of the biggest pillars of his fitness routine, and he often shares updates from marathons, trail runs and cycling expeditions.The actor has revealed that he typically covers between 60 and 70 kilometres every week. For him, outdoor exercise serves a dual purpose. It keeps him physically active while allowing him to stay connected with nature.His strength training routine is equally minimalistic. Instead of relying on sophisticated machines, he sticks to bodyweight exercises that can be performed anywhere. Speaking about his preferred workouts, Soman said, “Pull-ups, push-ups, planks, these are all I need to stay strong”.Over the years, he has frequently shared videos of himself performing advanced pull-ups and other bodyweight movements, proving that strength can be built without elaborate equipment.
Milind Soman’s diet that is rooted in simplicity
Just as his workouts avoid unnecessary complications, Soman’s eating habits are built around simple, home-cooked meals. He has consistently spoken against relying on protein bars, supplements and processed foods for nutrition.His mornings generally begin with water, fruits and nuts, followed by traditional Indian meals during the day. A typical lunch often includes dal, vegetables, roti or rice, usually accompanied by a spoonful of ghee.Explaining his dietary choices, Soman said, “I stay away, as far as possible, from over refined, processed and packaged food. No supplements or extra vitamins. Water, as required, never cold. No soft drinks, alcohol once or twice a year, maybe a glass”. His approach reflects a belief that nutritious food does not need to be complicated or heavily marketed to be effective.Unlike many fitness influencers who promote early morning wake-up routines, Soman follows a schedule that suits his natural rhythm. He has openly admitted that he is not someone who rises before sunrise. “I wake up around 8:30 and then stay in bed for the next hour or so,” he stated in an interview with Moneycontrol.After easing into the day, he usually heads out for a run around 10 am. Equally important, he avoids staying up late and places significant emphasis on getting adequate rest.
For Milind Soman, consistency is the real secret
What makes Milind Soman’s fitness journey remarkable is not a miracle workout or a secret diet plan. Instead, it is his unwavering commitment to simple habits repeated every day. Through regular exercise, mindful eating, outdoor activities and proper recovery, he has built a lifestyle that supports long-term health rather than short-term results.At 60, Soman continues to challenge conventional ideas about ageing. His example serves as a reminder that fitness is not determined by age, expensive memberships or complicated routines. More often than not, it comes down to discipline, balance and respecting the body’s natural needs. Go to Source
