Women Over 60 Crushing Fitness Goals: Zeenat Aman and Others Lead the Way

Veteran actress Zeenat Aman (72) recently shared a series of photos of her walking on a treadmill at home, quipping that she had ‘no more excuses’ as she embarked on a new fitness journey. Like the actress, many women on the other side of 60 have been crushing their fitness goals with gym routines, proving that age is just a number when it comes to the determination to stay fit.

“Regular gym sessions help in weight management and reduce the risk of chronic ailments like diabetes and heart disease. Apart from physical benefits, exercise fosters mental well-being by releasing endorphins, alleviating stress, and improving sleep” — Dr P Venkata Krishnan, senior consultant, internal medicine, Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon

In a series of pics shared on her Instagram stories, Zeenat Aman was seen working out on a treadmill and using a massage gun post her workout.

“Massage guns are a fantastic tool for relieving muscular discomfort and promoting recovery. They deliver quick percussive treatment, increasing blood flow to muscles and aiding in the breakdown of lactic acid accumulation. However, it is critical to utilise the appropriate attachments for different body areas to avoid bone damage during therapy. Applying mild pressure for 1-2 minutes can maximise benefits while reducing pain” — Fitness Expert Aman Puri, Founder of Steadfast Nutrition, a sports and wellness nutrition brand

Entrepreneur, mother of two and fitness icon, Ayesha Shroff is all this and more. At 63, she could probably beat you at lifting weights! Ayesha often does weight training to improve mobility. She also shared a video of her doing a 95 kg deadlift perfectly, which garnered praise from her daughter Krishna, and actress Disha Patani.

While Hrithik Roshan serves fitness goals with that chiselled body, it seems like he doesn’t have to look far for inspiration. The actor’s mom Pinkie Roshan is a regular at power strength training. The 69-year-old often shares glimpses of her gym workout sessions, with perfect deadlifts, planks, and other exercises, on social media.

Actress Anita Raaj is a fit-spiration for many. In an interview, the actress had shared her fitness routine which consists of cardio thrice a week, along with HIIT and a combination of weight and strength training on other days. “I was 25 when I was first introduced to weight training, and today at 58, weight training along with other forms of strength training has become an integral part of my life and fitness routine,” the 61-year-old had said.

From yoga to home workouts and gym sessions, Sangeeta Bijlani doesn’t skip a day when it comes to her fitness regime. The actress is seen doing powerful cardio sessions and strength training, in the workout videos she shares on social media, and has become a fitness inspiration for many.

“Exercise programs for aerobic and strength training can be beneficial for elders under the right supervision. After 50, it’s best to exercise even as little as 30 minutes for five days a week to prevent coronary artery disease (CAD), hypertension, diabetes, obesity and osteoporosis”— Dr Shubhangi Kanitkar, professor and HOD – Medicine, Dr D Y Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pune

“A mix of strength training and cardio is a game-changer for older women as it also boosts metabolism among other things which are needed to combat age-related concerns. It is especially beneficial during and after the menopausal phase when the risk of osteoporosis and weight gain is higher” — Dr Kritika Bolia, consultant – physiotherapist, Motherhood Hospitals, Pune

While you may be inspired to start a new fitness regime, Vaibhav Daga, head-sports science and rehabilitation, consultant sports medicine at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, has a word of caution. He says, “Prioritise safety by consulting a healthcare professional before starting a new regime. It’s important to incorporate strength training to maintain bone density, as well as muscle mass, which is said to reduce by 8-16% from the 40s to 60s.” Vaibhav suggests paying attention to nutrition, emphasising on calcium and vitamin D intake, as well as hydration. “Balance workouts with adequate rest to allow recovery and prevent overuse injuries,” he adds.