Fitness icon Milind Soman has embarked on an inspiring journey, covering the distance from Mumbai to Goa in approximately 3 days through a combination of running and cycling as part of the fifth edition of 'The Fit Indian Run'. The 59-year-old began his 558-kilometer solo endurance test on June 26th from Shivaji Park in Dadar, Mumbai, aiming to complete it by June 30th.
Soman's daily routine involves cycling around 100 km and running 21 km. However, he maintains a flexible approach, adjusting distances based on how he feels, potentially cycling 90 km and running 30 km on some days. The route winds through the picturesque Konkan belt, including Pen, Kolad, Chiplun, Ratnagiri, and Kankavli, before reaching Panaji, Goa.
So far, Milind has successfully completed the initial stages of his journey. On the first day, he flagged off the run at Shivaji Park, Dadar, covering 21 km on foot and 90 km by cycle, concluding the leg at Kolad. Day 2 saw him reach Chiplun, maintaining a similar format of running and cycling through the Konkan region. By the end of Day 2, he had covered a total of 222 kilometers.
Milind is accompanied by his wife, Ankita Konwar, who is providing support throughout the journey. This annual event, previously known as the Unity Run and held around Independence Day, was moved to the end of June to allow for deeper engagement with communities along the route, spreading the message of unity and fitness before Independence Day.
Soman sees 'The Fit Indian Run' as a personal expression of his belief in fitness as a unifying force for the nation. He emphasizes the importance of health and fitness for a good life and highlights Prime Minister Narendra Modi's promotion of fitness and a healthy lifestyle, including the celebration of Yoga Day. He describes the Konkan leg of the journey as a celebration of nature and spirit, acknowledging the beauty and demanding nature of the rain, winding paths, and endless greenery. He views the run as an embrace of challenges, promoting consistency and unity in the pursuit of health and well-being.