‘This time, not 85 but 86’: Helen demonstrates simple exercises to improve mobility
"Every time I work out with Helen Aunty, I’m reminded that age truly has no limits," shared Yasmin Karachiwala
Helen, who turned 86 recently, brought in her birthday with a workout with fitness trainer Yasmin Karachiwala. In a video, the actor shared, “I’m back again. This time, not 85, but 86”. She continued, “Please, please, please. Do what I did just now. It is so easy, and you will love it. You would want to do more.”
Sharing that it was the Don actor’s “birthday today,” Karachiwala said: “Helen aunty is going to show you five exercises that she started when she came to the gym, which you can do in your house.”
“Every time I work out with Helen Aunty, I’m reminded that age truly has no limits. She turns 86 today, and still shows up with more enthusiasm, discipline and joy than most of us! Pilates isn’t intimidating — you start small, you move at your pace, and your body meets you exactly where you are,” she continued.
Here’s what Helen demonstrated.
*Stand to sit. It is so important because that’s what you do every day, and you need the strength to keep doing it.
*Bridging. Lie down with your knees bent and slowly lift your hips. Not too high and then slowly come down.
*Marching. In the lying-down position with knees bent, lift one leg up to the tabletop and then place it back down. Repeat with the other leg. Keep alternating the legs and don’t bring them too close to your chest.
*Wall pushups. Place your hands on the wall, slightly below shoulder level, and keep your body upright. From this position, move the legs slightly back and wider. Lower your body in a straight line and inhale. Exhale and push it out.
*Theraband front raise with openings. Lift your hands with the band and wider, but not beyond your head. Come down all the way. Inhale, take it up, open, exhale and come down. Don’t shrug your shoulders. Only go up as much as is comfortable.
Healthy ageing is not just about numbers—it’s about self-love, courage, and the daily choice to honour your body’s journey. “Helen’s story at 86 reminds us that movement isn’t reserved for the young; it’s a celebration of persistence, hope, and the simple joys that each step brings,” said Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietitian and diabetes educator.
What stands out most is the power of gentle exercise: adapting every move—whether it’s standing from a chair, bridging on the mat, or reaching with a theraband—to what feels right for your own body. “Progress is measured not by intensity but by connection: the confidence gained, the balance restored, and the spark of independence felt in ordinary actions,” said Malhotra.
Every milestone—big or small—deserves celebration. “If you march at your pace and stretch within your comfort zone, you’re already championing health.”
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.
Helen, who turned 86 recently, brought in her birthday with a workout with fitness trainer Yasmin Karachiwala. In a video, the actor shared, “I’m back again. This time, not 85, but 86”. She continued, “Please, please, please. Do what I did just now. It is so easy, and you will love it. You would want to do more.”
Sharing that it was the Don actor’s “birthday today,” Karachiwala said: “Helen aunty is going to show you five exercises that she started when she came to the gym, which you can do in your house.”
“Every time I work out with Helen Aunty, I’m reminded that age truly has no limits. She turns 86 today, and still shows up with more enthusiasm, discipline and joy than most of us! Pilates isn’t intimidating — you start small, you move at your pace, and your body meets you exactly where you are,” she continued.
Here’s what Helen demonstrated.
*Stand to sit. It is so important because that’s what you do every day, and you need the strength to keep doing it.
*Bridging. Lie down with your knees bent and slowly lift your hips. Not too high and then slowly come down.
*Marching. In the lying-down position with knees bent, lift one leg up to the tabletop and then place it back down. Repeat with the other leg. Keep alternating the legs and don’t bring them too close to your chest.
*Wall pushups. Place your hands on the wall, slightly below shoulder level, and keep your body upright. From this position, move the legs slightly back and wider. Lower your body in a straight line and inhale. Exhale and push it out.
*Theraband front raise with openings. Lift your hands with the band and wider, but not beyond your head. Come down all the way. Inhale, take it up, open, exhale and come down. Don’t shrug your shoulders. Only go up as much as is comfortable.
Healthy ageing is not just about numbers—it’s about self-love, courage, and the daily choice to honour your body’s journey. “Helen’s story at 86 reminds us that movement isn’t reserved for the young; it’s a celebration of persistence, hope, and the simple joys that each step brings,” said Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietitian and diabetes educator.
What stands out most is the power of gentle exercise: adapting every move—whether it’s standing from a chair, bridging on the mat, or reaching with a theraband—to what feels right for your own body. “Progress is measured not by intensity but by connection: the confidence gained, the balance restored, and the spark of independence felt in ordinary actions,” said Malhotra.
Every milestone—big or small—deserves celebration. “If you march at your pace and stretch within your comfort zone, you’re already championing health.”
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.
