Self discipline for fitness key to live happy in lockdown: Milkha

90-yr-old former sprinter follows strict routine; condemn attacks on health workers, police personnel & media persons working for the welfare of people

Deepankar Sharda

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, April 6

The 90-year-old former Indian sprinter Milkha Singh has not restricted his quarantine period just to reading books or performing regular prayers.

Instead, he was quick to make a schedule for spending this 14-day lockdown period in the most efficient way — as he always likes — high on energy.

“Fitness is the most important shield for one’s body. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has destroyed many but it has also taught us the importance of living a healthy and simple life. I urge everyone to include regular exercise as a must do thing in their daily schedule,” said Milkha.

Milkha starts his day by attending a gym session with his 48-year-old son Jeev Milkha Singh, a renowned international golfer, at his Sector 8 residence. The father-son duo spends good time sweating on treadmill before performing skipping rope exercises, weight training and stretching.

“I never want to lose my fitness and it can only be maintained through sheer hard work. I am doing as much I can at this age,” said Milkha.

He further added, “Before this lockdown period, I used to carry my routine of playing golf or jogging daily. But since the lockdown, I spend most of the morning time exercising at home. After gym, my entire family performs jumping exercises and mild yoga.”

If the gym session is not enough, the veteran plays basketball with his 10-year-old grandson Harjai Milkha Singh — which he believes is the toughest part of the day. “There’s no competition with him… he is the best without any doubt,” laughed Milkha.

“My first half of the day ends up doing a lot of physical activities. Eating less is also among my preferences to remain fit. It’s been now 30 years that I am following a strict diet. Eat good and live light — the only mantra to keep my digestive system fit. I suggest that all people should also follow the same,” said Milkha.

In afternoon, the entire family spends time playing card games. “We usually play rummy after lunch. Jeev and I have lots to talk about sports and Harjai gives us a patient hearing. It’s good to remember old days,” said Milkha.

He also gives a piece of advice to the parents… “This is the perfect time to teach your kids about the rich history of Indian sportspersons. The children should watch some inspirational movies to know the importance and struggle of a sportsperson. Good things start in a nick of time and for many parents this is the right moment.”

He spends most of the evening while observing paintings made by his daughter-in-law Kudrat, taking knitting lessons from his wife Nirmal Milkha Singh and talking to his friends over phone.

His wife and former Indian volleyball team captain Nirmal also take inspiration from Milkha, when it comes to fitness. “We have tried to change our schedule and so far it’s good to remain safe in home. Not only they (Milkha and Jeev) but I also take up regular exercises. I perform yoga and my routine includes knitting, talking to friends and reading books,” said the 85-year-old, who remained UT Director Sports from 1984 to 1993.

Quote Box

“Self discipline is the most important part of one’s life. I feel hurt, when I see people attacking doctors, police personnel and media persons. The people need to understand all these front workers are working for our welfare,” Milkha Singh