Milind Soman
Milind Soman

On the occasion of World Peace Day on Sunday, India’s original pin-up boy, Milind Soman, led an enthusiastic group of fitness enthusiasts as he promoted Pinkathon, an initiative to encourage and support more women to be fit and to spread awareness about breast cancer.

Milind was spotted leading them in a run for fitness at the famed Shivaji Park in Mumbai.

Speaking exclusively to Team MissMalini, Milind tells us why running and walking are the best exercises for those too busy to hit the gym.

Says Milind, “Running and walking are the most basic forms of exercise. You don’t need special equipment. Space constraints don’t come into question and best of all – it’s free! So you can’t make any excuse for not having the time, space or money to exercise.”

Milind Soman
Milind Soman
Milind Soman
Milind Soman

We noticed Milind was running barefoot and asked him the reason for not wearing shoes. He tells us, “99% Indians run barefoot or in chappals. It’s not like you get corns or cracks or suffer wear and tear on your soles. In fact, the opposite happens – your feet become even more soft. I run barefoot because it’s the best way to run. And if you live in a place like Mumbai, the best places to run bare-feet are Marine Drive, Worli sea face or the highway.”

Milind Soman
Milind Soman
Milind Soman
Milind Soman

Here Are some tips From Milind:

* If you’ve been contemplating going for that early morning run or walk, the most important thing to do is – just start! Don’t think of the hows and whens and whys. Get out of bed and go for a run or walk.
* There is no time limit for the amount of time you need to spend on running or walking. But twenty minutes is a good start. Start small and keep increasing the time according to your comfort level.
* Drink water regularly, even while walking or running. Hydration should happen all the time – at least every 15-20 mins.
* If you have a desk job, get exercise by walking around your office while you’re thinking. Don’t sit and think. Walk and think. Even when talking on the phone, walk around.

Pix: Yogen Shah for MissMalini