5 Pilates Exercises That Made Helen Ditch the Walking Stick and Walk on Her Own at 86!

Just some time ago, veteran actress Helen was struggling to move around without a walking stick. Simple tasks like standing up or walking across a room needed support. At 86, that loss of independence can feel scary and limiting. But instead of giving in, she chose to move differently. Slowly. Gently. With care.

Thanks to a new Pilates-based routine, Helen is now walking on her own again. No stick. No constant support. On her 86th birthday, she shared the five exercises that helped her rebuild strength, balance, and confidence. What this really means is that progress doesn’t always come from intense workouts. Sometimes, it comes from small, consistent movements done the right way.

Helen’s Fitness Expert Shares Her Journey

Pilates focuses on controlled movements, better posture, and core stability. For older adults, it offers a safe way to improve mobility without straining the joints. Helen’s routine was created and guided by celebrity fitness expert Yasmin Karachiwala, who has worked closely with her through this journey.

Yasmin shared an emotional video of their session. In the video, Helen is seen focused and determined, moving carefully through each exercise. Yasmin explains that these are the very exercises Helen started with when she first came to the gym. And the best part? Most of them can be done at home.

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The 5 Pilates Exercises Helen Swears By

 

 

 

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A post shared by Yasmin Karachiwala | Celebrity Fitness Instructor (@yasminkarachiwala)

1. Stand to Sit

• “This is so important because that's what you do every day,” Yasmin explains. “You have to sit, you have to stand up, and you need to have the strength to do it. So practise this.”
• This simple movement strengthens the thighs and improves balance. It also trains the body to move safely during everyday actions like getting up from a chair or bed.

2. Bridging

• For this, you lie on your back with your knees bent. Then slowly lift your hips up and bring them down. Yasmin reminds us not to go too high, as pressure on the neck should be avoided.
• This exercise strengthens the lower back, glutes, and core muscles. It also improves spinal flexibility and supports better posture, which is key for steady walking.

3. Marching

• From a lying position with knees bent, lift one leg to the tabletop and place it down, then switch. Yasmin advises keeping the knee over the hip and not pulling it too close to the chest.
• Marching works on hip mobility and core control. It helps improve coordination and stability, making everyday movements feel more controlled and less shaky.

4. Wall Push-Up

• Standing in front of a wall, hands placed slightly below shoulder level, you lower and raise your body by bending the elbows. The body stays upright and straight throughout the movement.
• This exercise strengthens the arms, shoulders, and chest. It also improves upper body support, which plays a role in maintaining balance while walking or standing.

5. Theraband Front Raise with Openings

• Holding a theraband, you lift it up and gently open your arms as you rise. Yasmin stresses not going beyond head level and keeping the shoulders relaxed.
• This movement builds shoulder stability and improves posture. It also helps prevent stiffness in the upper body, which often affects overall movement in older adults.

How These Exercises Support Healthy Ageing

Yasmin points out that these movements don’t just build strength. They restore confidence. As muscles grow stronger and joints become more flexible, everyday tasks start feeling less frightening. Walking feels safer. Standing feels steadier. And the fear of falling slowly reduces.

For seniors, this kind of routine supports better circulation, joint lubrication, and overall mobility. It also boosts mental well-being. When someone starts moving independently again, their sense of control and self-worth naturally improves.

A Gentle Reminder on Safety

While these exercises are safe for many, it’s always wise to consult a doctor or certified fitness professional before starting, especially if there’s a history of joint pain, surgeries, or chronic illness. The goal is progress, not pressure.

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Conclusion

Helen’s journey shows that it’s never too late to rebuild strength and independence. With patience, guidance, and the right movements, even long-standing mobility issues can improve. What stands out most isn’t just her physical recovery, but her determination to keep showing up for herself. And that’s a powerful lesson for anyone who thinks age puts a limit on movement.