Shivohaam, a well-known fitness coach, recently highlighted the dedication of 83-year-old Amitabh Bachchan to maintaining his physical health. During a conversation with podcaster Pankaj Sharma, he spoke about the long-standing partnership between Bachchan and his wife, celebrity trainer Vrinda Grover, which spans 26 years. Shivohaam remarked, “Vrinda has been training Mr. Bachchan for nearly three decades. Initially, she guided him through physical training, and now they practice yoga together. He has adhered to the same exercise regimen for 26 years, as taught by Vrinda. The core elements have remained unchanged, with only minor adjustments for leg strength. The warm-up routine and the sequence of machines he uses have been consistent throughout this period. If that doesn’t exemplify routine, or even magic, then I don’t know what does. There’s a lesson to be learned from him. His approach to life at this stage is evident. Establishing a routine is essential, and that’s what makes him inspirational.”
In a discussion regarding the significance of such long-term routines, Dr. Gaznafar Patel, an orthopaedic consultant specializing in minimally invasive and robotic joint replacements as well as sports medicine at Wockhardt Hospitals Mumbai Central, emphasized that consistency is crucial for maintaining musculoskeletal health as individuals age. He stated, “Engaging in regular, structured physical activity is vital for preserving muscle strength, joint flexibility, balance, and overall functional ability. A routine sustained over several years allows the body to gradually adapt to the exercises, as long as the intensity and types of exercises are suitable for an individual’s age and physical condition.”
Dr. Patel further explained that a routine does not need to undergo drastic changes to be effective. “Repeating familiar movements can enhance technique, coordination, and consistency. However, as people age, their physical needs evolve, and previous injuries may affect their fitness level. Thus, it may be necessary to make slight adjustments to the intensity, repetitions, resistance, or range of motion. The focus should be on progression and sustainability, rather than the pursuit of constantly new exercises,” he advised.
He also noted the importance of a proper warm-up, which prepares muscles and joints for physical activity by gradually increasing blood flow and mobility. “Mobility exercises play a crucial role in maintaining functional movement range, especially as stiffness can become more pronounced with age. An effective routine should ideally incorporate a balance of mobility, strength, stability, and cardiovascular activities, rather than concentrating on just one aspect,” Dr. Patel recommended.
Moreover, he cautioned against abruptly increasing weights, intensity, or exercise duration, particularly after an extended period of inactivity. “Exercising through significant pain can lead to serious issues. Recovery and rest are just as vital. Any ongoing joint pain, swelling, instability, or limited movement should be assessed rather than overlooked. Importantly, individuals should avoid mimicking a celebrity’s regimen exactly; exercise programs should be tailored to each person’s age, fitness level, medical history, and physical limitations,” Dr. Patel concluded.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we consulted. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before initiating any exercise routine.
