Milind Soman says there is no special regime to follow to run that extra mile
Model, actor and now an active runner, Milind Soman has come a long way. He has been in the news for his vigorous promotion of marathons. Off on a barefoot marathon in Coorg, he talks about the importance and benefits of running. Excerpts.
Can you describe your journey from being a model to a marathon runner?
It has been fun. The two worlds are as different as you want it to be. I like to be myself and have been running for years. It comes naturally to me. I can now run and run.
Which is a better way to connect to people — as a celebrity or a runner?
Both have different rapports. As a marathon runner it is more personal. The connection, sometimes, is superficial when it happens through the media.
When were you bitten by the fitness bug?
It all started when I was 10. I was keen on fitness as a model and actor.
Why did you choose marathons?
I was always into running. My work has been noticed because of social media. Running is easy and everyone can do it. I want people to explore themselves and their challenges.
Who can run a marathon?
Running is easy. It is a misconception that it is tough. We have been doing the Pinkathon. Today 62,000 women are running with us, which shows that given an opportunity, women will take part in it. The good thing is that they have realised they too need to exercise. In India, health is the last priority.
How does one train for a run?
You start with three km walk and then go on to running half a marathon. You should decide on your level depending on capability and fitness.
How does a success of a marathon make you feel?
It feels good that I am able to create an opportunity. It also depends on the people. We have people undergoing chemotherapy who run.
What is the secret to good health?
It starts in your mind. Remove negative thoughts. You do not have to start with push ups and biceps. You should eat the right kind of food. Once your mind and body is healthy, it creates a freedom that helps you enjoy life. Being fit does not mean restrictions. Your body and mind can deal with much more.
Are there diet restrictions?
You can eat anything and everything. You don’t have to starve to look good. I am against refined white sugar. I can eat anything from an oily biriyani to sabudana khichdi. What makes you fat is sugar and sedentary lifestyle.
What are the benefits of barefoot running?
It is the best and keeps your body alive. Your efficiency improves, your technique improves. For me barefoot running, has minimised my injuries. It creates a nice balance, when you are connection with the earth. It makes me enjoy running.
Milind will be running with prominent runners from Coorg and Bengaluru for the Barefoot Marathon. The run is dedicated to the conservation and well-being of the environment and is organised in partnership with Coorg Wildlife Society. The venue will be the Main Gate, Tata Coffee Estate, Pollibetta, Coorg,on December 5. For details, log on to coorgwellnessfoundation .com.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Features> MetroPlus / by Shilpa Sebastian R / Bengaluru – December 02nd, 2015
