At 59, Milind Soman is a fitness icon. But it's his latest 86-year-old workout partner who has everyone's attention

Some people inspire you to hit the gym. Others inspire you to throw out every excuse you’ve ever made about age and fitness. Milind Soman’s latest Instagram video manages to do both — but this time, the real star isn’t the 59-year-old actor himself. It’s his 86-year-old mother, Usha Soman, whose agility and energy have left the internet in awe. Together, they’ve proved that fitness isn’t just a phase or a fad — it’s a way of life.

In a video shared on Friday, Milind can be seen skipping rope alongside his mother and wife, Ankita Konwar, somewhere in the misty hills. In the caption, Milind mentioned that it was a family skipping session, adding that his mother, now 86, skips every day along with practising yoga and other movements, and wished everyone a long, healthy, and happy life.

The clip captures a picturesque moment on a balcony or terrace overlooking a lush valley, mist swirling in the background. But the real beauty lies in the synchronicity between Milind and Usha as they hop in perfect rhythm. While Milind has long been celebrated as a fitness idol, it’s clear he comes from a family where discipline, movement, and health are second nature.

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A post shared by Milind Usha Soman (@milindrunning)

Internet reacts

Actress Nimrat Kaur called it the best visual and life treat. Another person remarked that fitness clearly runs in the family and sent love to Milind’s mother. Many praised Usha Soman’s energy and spirit, with one describing her as a joy to behold and another calling her skipping at 86 truly incredible. Several commenters said the family is an inspiration to all age groups, while others admired Aai’s humility and simplicity, noting that Milind clearly inherits these qualities from her.

What is the secret of Milind Soman's fitness?

Milind Soman’s diet is as disciplined as his fitness routine. His mornings start with half a litre of water, followed by a 10 a.m. breakfast of nuts and fresh seasonal fruits like papaya and melon. Lunch is simple—rice or chapatis with dal, heaps of local vegetables, and a spoon of homemade ghee. Mostly vegetarian, he indulges in meat or eggs barely once a month. Evenings bring a cup of black tea with jaggery, while dinner, by 7 p.m., is light—vegetables or khichdi. Processed foods are off the menu, and alcohol? Reserved for just one or two rare occasions a year.