At 60, Milind Soman’s fitness rules are simple: No gimmicks, the secret lies in...

Aging like a fine wine, it seems this phrase was made for actor, model and fitness icon Milind Soman, who recently turned 60. Decades after becoming India’s original supermodel, Soman continues to inspire with his sculpted physique, boundless energy, and minimalist approach to health. But, Soman does not chase complicated gym routines or fad diets. Then, what’s the secret behind his ageless fitness? Let’s unveil the formula that keeps Milind Soman lean, strong, and energetic well into his sixth decade.

Milind Soman sees fitness as freedom. He encourages people to focus on functionality over form. Whether it’s climbing a mountain or running a long distance, his approach is rooted in practical vitality.

He doesn’t spend hours in the gym

In a conversation with TOI, Soman said that he has never gone to a gym to have a workout routine. He says, “I don’t use equipment.” Contrary to popular belief in gym routines, Soman’s fitness mantra is refreshingly simple.


“I make sure I exercise everyday. People consider me really fit but I only exercise for 10‑15 minutes everyday.” Soman says that on days he feels particularly energetic, he might do multiple sets of outdoor exercises. From running in marathons to covering miles on cycle wheels, his Instagram page is full of photos and videos of him doing these activities. Soman considers outdoor movement not just exercise, but a way to connect with nature and challenge his limits. He has shared how he usually covers 60 to 70 kms in a week.


Another one of his daily workouts is core body-weight exercises. In an interview with TOI, he said, “Pull-ups, push-ups, planks, these are all I need to stay strong”. He often posts himself doing pull-ups while carrying weights.

Simplicity in Soman’s diet and lifestyle habits

Milind Soman’s approach to diet mirrors his minimalist fitness philosophy. When it comes to food, his plate doesn’t include anything fancy. No diets and no fads, just fresh home cooked meals. Soman starts his day with water, fruits and nuts. Dal, sabji, roti or rice, this is what his typical lunch looks like, with a spoonful of ghee on top. Soman says, “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”.


It may sound surprising, but Milind Soman does not wake up at dawn or very early in the morning. “I wake up around 8:30 and then stay in bed for the next hour or so”, he stated in an interview with moneycontrol. He says he goes for a run at around 10 am. Soman doesn’t pull all-nighters, in fact, he doesn't even stay up late.

Fitness as a way of life

Soman believes that mind-body connection is key to long-term wellness. His secret to fitness lies in consistency, simplicity, and respect for the body’s natural rhythm. From short daily exercise bursts and endurance activities like running and cycling, to body-weight workouts, yoga, and mindful eating, every aspect of his routine is designed to support long-term health and vitality. His journey shows that staying fit doesn’t have to be complicated.