When Milind Soman completed a challenging swim from Europe to Africa at the age of 60 recently, he once again showed why he is 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 her incredible endurance on a much simpler foundation: consistency, natural movement and healthy eating.Known for films like ‘Wet Fry’, ‘Bajirao Mastani’ and ‘Chef’, Soman has spent decades championing a lifestyle that prioritizes health over looks. Even today, his philosophy of fitness remains refreshingly complex.For Milind Soman, exercise is not about sculpting the perfect body but about maintaining the freedom to move, explore and challenge yourself. Whether he participates in marathons, long distance cycling or open water swimming, his focus is always on building functional strength.In a conversation with TOI, Soman revealed that he didn’t rely on a conventional gym setup to stay fit. “I don’t use tools.” She also explained that despite being considered one of the fittest celebrities in the country, her daily workout routine is surprisingly short.“I make sure I exercise every day. People think I’m really fit but I exercise for 10-15 minutes every day.” Instead of spending hours lifting weights, Soman believes regular movement is more important than long workout sessions. On days when he feels particularly energetic, he can increase the intensity or do multiple sets of exercises outside.
Running power and Body weight training
A quick glance at Somen’s social media accounts reveals his love for the sport of endurance. Running is one of the biggest pillars of her fitness routine, and she often shares updates on marathons, trail runs and cycling adventures.The actor revealed that he usually covers between 60 and 70 km per week. For him, outdoor exercise serves a dual purpose. It keeps him physically active while allowing him to connect with nature.His strength training routine is equally concise. Instead of relying on sophisticated machines, he sticks to bodyweight exercises that can be done anywhere. Talking about his favorite workout, Somen said, “Pull-ups, push-ups, planks, they’re all for me to stay strong”.Over the years, he has often shared videos of himself doing advanced pull-ups and other bodyweight movements, proving that strength can be built without extensive equipment.
Milind Soman’s diet is based on simplicity
Just as her workouts avoid unnecessary complications, Soman’s eating habits are built around simple, home-cooked meals. He has consistently spoken out against relying on protein bars, supplements and processed foods for nutrition.His morning usually starts with water, fruit and nuts, followed by the traditional Indian meal of the day. A typical lunch often consists of pulses, vegetables, roti or rice, usually with a spoonful of ghee.Explaining his dietary choices, Somen says, “I stay away, as much as possible, from overly refined, processed and packaged foods. No supplements or extra vitamins. Water, as necessary, never cold. No soft drinks, alcohol once or twice a year, maybe a glass”. His approach reflects a belief that nutritious foods do not need complicated or heavy marketing to be effective.Unlike many fitness influencers who promote an early morning wake-up routine, Soman follows a schedule that fits her natural rhythm. He openly admits that he is not one to rise before sunrise. “I wake up around 8:30 and then stay in bed for the next hour or so,” he said in an interview with Moneycontrol.After relaxing during the day, he usually goes out for a run around 10 am. Equally important, he avoids staying up late and emphasizes getting enough rest.
Consistency is the real secret for Milind Soman
What makes Milind Soman’s fitness journey extraordinary is not a miracle workout or a secret diet plan. Instead, it’s his unwavering commitment to simple habits repeated daily. Through regular exercise, mindful eating, outdoor activities and proper recovery, she has created a lifestyle that supports long-term health rather than short-term results.At 60, Somen continues to challenge conventional notions of aging. Her 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.