At 85, veteran Bollywood icon Helen Khan is defying conventional notions of aging, proving that vitality and joy can flourish at any age. Known for her captivating dance numbers and silver screen presence, Helen is now making headlines for her impressive fitness routine, particularly her dedication to Pilates. A recent video shared by celebrity trainer Yasmin Karachiwala showcased Helen engaging in full-body Pilates moves, trampoline jumps, and even dancing with an energy that many in their twenties would envy, redefining what it means to age gracefully and actively. Her commitment to exercise, especially Pilates, is the cornerstone of her remarkable agility and cheerful disposition.
Pilates: Helen’s Secret to Sustained Energy and Mobility
Helen Khan’s fitness journey, particularly her embrace of Pilates, has become a source of widespread inspiration. After finding her balance wasn’t always right and resorting to a walking stick in her 80s, Helen returned to consistent exercise, discovering Pilates to be the most beneficial. She now works out at least five days a week for an hour, a routine that initially focused on flexibility and gradually incorporated strength-building exercises.
Beyond Pilates: A Holistic Approach to Wellness
While Pilates is central to her current regimen, Helen’s active lifestyle extends beyond it. The viral video also captured her confidently climbing stairs without support, bouncing on a trampoline, and joyfully dancing to her iconic song, “Monica, Oh My Darling.”,,, This blend of exercises contributes to her overall well-being, highlighting that movement, in various forms, is indeed medicine. Helen herself proudly stated in the video, “Hi, I am a girl of 85, and because of Pilates and thanks to Yasmin, I’ll show you what I can do.”
The Benefits of Pilates for Seniors
Helen’s experience powerfully illustrates the numerous advantages of Pilates, especially for older adults. Pilates, a low-impact exercise system, focuses on strengthening the core muscles, improving flexibility, balance, and overall strength.
- Core Strength and Stability: Exercises like Single Leg Pull & Double Leg Pull are crucial for building core strength, which is vital for balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls in seniors.,
- Enhanced Flexibility and Range of Motion: Movements such as the Side-Lying Series help to improve flexibility and increase the range of motion in joints, counteracting age-related stiffness.
- Gentle Strength Building: Modified planks offer a way to build strength without putting excessive pressure on potentially weaker joints.
- Support and Adaptability: Wall Pilates provides exercises that can be performed with the support of a wall, making them accessible and safe for seniors. Similarly, exercises like Thigh Folds can be adapted using a chair, allowing for easy participation.
- Improved Posture and Balance: Pilates emphasizes proper alignment and controlled movements, which contribute significantly to better posture and enhanced balance.
- Increased Energy and Mood: Helen has shared that since starting Pilates, she feels more energetic, alive, and happy, even noting that it gives her a natural high, eliminating the need for other substances.
Helen’s Longevity: A Testament to Active Living
Helen’s commitment to fitness is not a recent development. Throughout her three-decade-long reign in the film industry, she maintained a strict regimen of diet, regular exercise, and daily morning yoga. This consistent dedication to physical activity has undoubtedly contributed to her remarkable health and spirit at 85. She recommends Pilates to friends and family, emphasizing its benefits for people of all ages, especially senior citizens. Her ability to sit and stand without support, swing her legs, and walk up and down stairs unassisted, despite previously relying on a walking cane due to knee issues, is a testament to the transformative power of her routine.,
Embracing Movement at Any Age
Helen Khan’s inspiring story serves as a powerful reminder that age is truly just a number when it comes to maintaining an active and joyful life. Her dedication to Pilates and other forms of movement showcases that with consistent effort and the right approach, seniors can significantly improve their physical capabilities, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. The World Health Organization recommends that older adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, a guideline Helen clearly embodies and surpasses. Her journey encourages everyone to find a form of exercise they enjoy and to embrace movement as a lifelong pursuit of health and happiness.
