Veteran Bollywood actor Helen is redefining what it means to age gracefully, proving that fitness has no expiration date. Recently celebrating her 86th birthday, the legendary performer marked the occasion not with a quiet party, but with an energetic workout session alongside renowned celebrity fitness instructor Yasmin Karachiwala.
A Birthday Workout with a Message
In a video shared on social media, Helen announced her return with an inspiring declaration. "I'm back again. This time, not 85, but 86," she stated, radiating vitality. She passionately encouraged her audience to follow her lead, saying, "Please, please, please. Do what I did just now. It is so easy, and you will love it. You would want to do more."
Karachiwala, introducing the special birthday session, revealed that Helen was about to demonstrate five foundational exercises she began with at the gym, all of which can be easily replicated at home. The fitness expert expressed her own admiration, sharing a sentiment that resonated with many. "Every time I work out with Helen Aunty, I'm reminded that age truly has no limits," Karachiwala said. "She turns 86 today, and still shows up with more enthusiasm, discipline and joy than most of us!"
Five Simple Exercises for Everyday Mobility
The routine Helen demonstrated focuses on functional movements that support daily life, promoting strength, balance, and independence. Karachiwala emphasized that practices like Pilates are not intimidating; you start small, move at your own pace, and your body adapts accordingly.
The exercises showcased were:
- Stand to Sit: A crucial movement for daily life, this exercise builds the necessary leg strength to rise from and lower into a chair confidently.
- Bridging: Lying on your back with knees bent, you slowly lift your hips to a moderate height and then gently lower them back down.
- Marching: In the same lying-down position with bent knees, you alternately lift each leg to a 'tabletop' position and place it back down, being careful not to bring the knees too close to the chest.
- Wall Pushups: Placing hands on a wall slightly below shoulder level, you step your feet back, keep your body straight, and then lower yourself towards the wall before pushing back to the start.
- Theraband Front Raise with Openings: Holding a resistance band, you lift your hands forward and up, opening arms wider (without going beyond the head), and then lower them back down, all while avoiding shrugging the shoulders.
The Broader Lesson in Healthy Ageing
This demonstration goes beyond a simple workout video. It serves as a powerful testament to the philosophy of healthy ageing. Kanikka Malhotra, a consultant dietitian and diabetes educator, reflected on this, noting that Helen's story at 86 reminds us that movement is a celebration of persistence and hope.
The core message is the power of gentle, adapted exercise. It's not about high intensity but about connection with one's own body. Progress is measured in the confidence gained, the balance restored, and the independence felt in performing ordinary actions. As Malhotra highlighted, "If you march at your pace and stretch within your comfort zone, you're already championing health."
Helen's vibrant example at 86 stands as an inspiration, encouraging people of all ages to embrace movement, listen to their bodies, and make the daily choice to honour their health journey.
