What Ashton Hall Couldn’t Do, These 6 Indian Actors Have Already Mastered

When viral clips surfaced of fitness creator Ashton Hall reportedly struggling during a 40KG gada challenge while his Indian counterpart powered through with ease, the internet found itself revisiting a centuries-old conversation: what does real strength actually look like? The moment reignited interest in India’s traditional fitness systems, where strength is built through endurance, discipline, and functional movement rather than aesthetics alone. From akhadas to film sets, several Indian actors have embraced these age-old training methods, proving that traditional strength training is still very much alive.

1. Kranti Prakash Jha

Known for his performances in Sankalp and Raktanchal, Kranti Prakash Jha is among the strongest advocates of akhada-style fitness.
His training regularly includes gada swinging, rope climbing, dands, and baithaks.
The actor often shares glimpses of these traditional workouts, helping bring wrestling-inspired fitness back into the spotlight.

2. Akshay Kumar

Akshay Kumar has always preferred a fitness philosophy rooted in martial arts, mobility, and discipline.
Rather than chasing bodybuilding aesthetics, he focuses on stamina, flexibility, and overall athleticism.
His long-standing approach proves that functional fitness can be just as effective as heavy gym-based training.

3. Salman Khan

For Sultan, Salman Khan adopted wrestling-inspired conditioning and endurance drills to authentically portray a pehelwan.
His preparation involved rigorous training designed to replicate the strength and movement of traditional wrestlers.
The transformation highlighted how akhada-style conditioning remains relevant even in modern cinema.

4. Aamir Khan

For Dangal, Aamir Khan underwent intensive wrestler-style training that included rope work, strength exercises, and conditioning drills.
His physical transformation became one of Bollywood’s most talked-about preparations.
The film also introduced a wider audience to the discipline and lifestyle associated with traditional Indian wrestling.

5. Ram Charan

For his upcoming film Peddi, Ram Charan incorporated traditional training elements such as gada exercises, rope climbing, and wrestler-style conditioning.
The actor’s rugged transformation has generated significant buzz among fans.
His preparation showcases how age-old Indian strength-building techniques continue to influence modern action heroes.

6. Milind Soman

Milind Soman has consistently championed natural fitness through running, swimming, and bodyweight exercises.
His philosophy centres on endurance, consistency, and sustainable health rather than quick transformations.
In many ways, he embodies the core principles that have defined traditional Indian fitness systems for generations.

As conversations around functional fitness continue to grow, these actors are a reminder that some of the most effective training methods were perfected long before modern gyms existed. India’s traditional strength-training culture isn’t making a comeback—it never really left.