Oscar-winning actress Dame Helen Mirren, now aged 81, has recently made a significant change to her fitness routine, moving away from a vigorous 12-minute military exercise regimen to more soothing yoga practices.

Throughout her career, Mirren has actively promoted the Royal Canadian Air Force’s XBX workout, designed for women in the 1950s, as key to her fitness. She has referenced this method multiple times, particularly emphasizing its role in maintaining her health over the years.

A Change in Approach

In a candid statement, Mirren explained her transition: “I used to [do it]. I don’t anymore. It’s too exhausting. I do yoga, I do about ten, 15 minutes a day.” This shift reflects a broader trend among fitness enthusiasts who are increasingly gravitating towards gentler forms of exercise.

Initially, she championed the XBX program which involves a quick series of exercises aimed at improving overall strength and fitness. The routine includes various exercises targeting multiple muscle groups and requires no gym equipment, making it accessible and convenient.

Maintaining Balance

Mirren candidly described herself as a “classic yo-yo dieter,” noting fluctuations of up to 10 pounds in her weight. At present, she acknowledges that she is “at the top end of those 10lb” and is working to revert to a healthier weight range.

Despite her shift in exercise preferences, she emphasizes that even minimal daily workouts can yield significant benefits. “It takes just 12 minutes a day to get fit,” she stated, highlighting the efficiency of short, focused regimes.

The XBX program she previously followed consists of exercises such as push-ups, sit-ups, and arm circling, structured to progressively enhance the user’s fitness level with increased difficulty as they improve. Mirren admitted to reverting to this plan whenever she feels her fitness waning.

Reflections and Future Plans

Mirren reminisced about her experiences with the routine during a 2021 interview with British Vogue, admitting, “I’m a big believer in the Canadian Air Force women’s exercise regime.” Despite her dedication, she humorously noted, “I’ve never gotten past the second level, but it’s a nice little exercise program.” This candidness reflects her understanding of the challenges of maintaining a consistent fitness regime.

Moreover, she has expressed her feelings about body image, referencing a memorable 2008 photo of herself in a red bikini that has garnered attention over the years. She candidly shared that this image, while flattering, may not wholly represent her current self-image, confessing, “I don’t actually look like that, and I know that that is going to haunt me forever.”