Content creator and fitness coach Rhythm Vij recently challenged Milind Soman to a fun push-up competition. “We count together,” Soman shared in a video on Vij’s Instagram, showing both of them doing effortless push-ups with claps. “I honestly didn’t expect this! @milindrunning,” wrote Vij, who lost out after 23 pushups, and was shocked to know that Soman is 60.
“A 60-year-old man beat me,” shared an amused Vij.
This fun competition is a testament to how much strength, endurance and discipline go into mastering even a basic bodyweight exercise, said consultant dietitian and fitness expert Garima Goyal. “To perform multiple pushups, the body needs strong shoulders, chest and triceps along with a well-engaged core and stable joints. It is not only raw power, but also control, breathing and technique that allow someone to maintain form while moving quickly,” said Goyal.
From a health perspective, a fast set of push-ups strengthens the entire upper body and core while also raising the heart rate to improve cardiovascular fitness, said Goyal. “It supports posture, enhances bone and joint strength, and builds resilience for everyday activities that involve lifting or pushing. As we age, keeping our bodies strong with functional movements like pushups can help maintain independence and reduce the risk of falls or injuries.”
Can you also do pushups? (Photo: Freepik)
Feeling inspired? Here’s how you can train for such a pushup challenge
It usually starts with fewer repetitions done with perfect form, then gradually increasing speed and stamina over time. “Mobility work for wrists and shoulders, proper warm-ups and steady progression help reduce strain and support better performance. Consistency matters more than intensity, because the body learns movement patterns through repetition,” said Goyal.
Goyal noted how being able to do bodyweight exercises like pushups in your 60s is not about showing off.
“It reflects years of active living, mindful training, and commitment to staying strong. It proves that age can coexist with athleticism when fitness becomes a lifestyle rather than a phase,” said Goyal.
DISCLAIMER:This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
