Helen Mirren Shares Secret to Staying Fit at 80

Los Angeles, CA — Award-winning actress Helen Mirren is turning 80 this July, but her energy levels rival those of a rookie cadet. The actress credits her vitality to a simple workout routine developed in the 1950s for women in the Royal Canadian Air Force. Mirren is ‘a big believer’ in this no-frills exercise regimen.

‘It is an exercise regime that starts from very low and easy, then if you follow it through, it can become quite difficult,’ Mirren said. She added that while she has yet to progress past the second level, the program remains manageable. ‘Nothing extreme, but you need to do it every day. That’s a great start, because it’s all about taking control of yourself.’

The workout, known as XBX—short for ‘Ten Basic Exercises’—is celebrated for its simplicity and accessibility. It offers a total working time of just 12 minutes, with exercises designed to be progressive, allowing individuals to increase repetitions as their fitness improves.

‘Physical fitness does not mean bulging muscles nor is it the exclusive property of men,’ states the manual’s foreword. The ten exercises aim to help women achieve physical well-being and optimum living.

A standard version of the XBX Plan includes warming up with gentle forward bends, followed by exaggerated high knees, shoulder rotations for mobility, standing side kicks for thighs and hips, wall exercises for upper body strength, and light jogging for cardio.

Despite the straightforward nature of the routine, Mirren’s approach to health combines joy with discipline. ‘My advice is to work from the inside out,’ she shared with British Vogue. ‘First, take control of your diet and find one that makes you feel good.’

The actress enjoys her share of treats but emphasizes quality nutrition. From fish and chips to healthy choices, Mirren acknowledges that what you eat influences your well-being. ‘Exercise doesn’t mean joining expensive gyms,’ she noted. ‘If you’ve got a spare 12 minutes and a floor, you’ve got no excuse.’

As she prepares to celebrate another year of life, Helen Mirren continues to inspire through her commitment to fitness and healthy living.