For six decades, Dame Helen Mirren has relied on a simple yet effective fitness regimen to maintain her stunning figure.
At 79, the Oscar-winning actress credits the 12-minute Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) women’s exercise routine for her age-defying looks.
In an interview with Woman’s Weekly, she described the program as a practical, no-frills approach to fitness that doesn’t require expensive gym memberships.
“I’ve never gotten past the second level,” Helen admitted, “but it’s a nice little exercise program.”
Known as the XBX routine, it was created in the 1950s by Dr. Bill Orban to help female recruits improve their physical fitness.
The Simplicity of the XBX Routine
The XBX routine includes 10 basic exercises performed in a set order, such as toe touches, knee raises, and arm circles.
Each movement lasts 30 seconds, with the difficulty increasing gradually across 48 levels.
Designed to be completed in just 12 minutes a day, the program is as accessible as it is effective.
According to the official XBX guidebook, the plan is meant to make fitness enjoyable and manageable, offering women a sustainable way to stay active.
Helen’s long-term commitment to the routine is a testament to its enduring appeal.
A Vision of Elegance on the Red Carpet
Beyond her fitness routine, Helen Mirren continues to wow fans with her timeless glamour.
At November’s L’Oréal Paris Women of Worth Celebration, the actress dazzled in a lavender sequined gown with a sheer mesh skirt and elegant accessories.
Having served as a L’Oréal brand ambassador since 2014, Helen’s radiant appearance on the red carpet was another reminder of her iconic status.
Advocating Against Age Discrimination
Helen’s advocacy extends beyond beauty and fitness.
In October, she joined Age UK in highlighting the widespread issue of ageism.
The charity’s report revealed that a third of people over 65 in England have experienced discrimination, ranging from disrespectful treatment to outright exclusion.
Helen described ageism as “upsetting and unfair,” adding, “Everybody, regardless of their age, should feel included and valued.”
She called for a shift in attitudes and greater recognition of older people’s contributions and needs.
A Call for Change
Age UK’s analysis also found that discrimination often overlaps with other prejudices.
Women over 50 reported facing sexism, while people from minority ethnic backgrounds encountered racial or religious discrimination.
The charity emphasized the urgent need to address these issues as the population continues to age.
Helen concluded, “Ageing happens to us all, but life shouldn’t get tougher because of it.
It’s in everyone’s interest to ensure older people are respected and treated as individuals.”