Elle India|February 2017

Can you be strong and flexible at 60? A group of senior gymnasts show april long how it's done, one somersault at a time.

Article Reader

A little over a year ago, I took a series of private classes at True Pilates, a no-frills establishment in New York City. Though I enjoyed the sessions, I found myself distracted by something else going on in a corner of the room: a group of older women in leotards—many of them, it appeared, were in their seventies and beyond—doing somersaults and splits; some were even lifting themselves up on rings suspended from the ceiling and doing lithe, athletic flips. I wondered: ex–circus performers? Former Olympians? How could senior citizens be so extraordinarily bendy? Even after I abandoned Pilates and moved on to barre, then yoga, then spinning—sampling the city dweller’s smorgasbord of fitness options without finding one that wholly satisfied me—I couldn’t stop thinking about those ladies. Did they know something I didn’t? Was basic, old-school gymnastics—something that, to this day, can conjure up shudders of junior-high dread in me—the secret to remaining forever fit?

This story is from the February 2017 edition of Elle India.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the February 2017 edition of Elle India.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM ELLE INDIAView All
Hijabi Hair, Don't Care
Elle India

Hijabi Hair, Don't Care

TLC for the mane, especially when it isn't visible to the world, transmutes it into an act of self-love for Hasina Jeelani

time-read
3 mins  |
October 2024
THE MANE ATTRACTION
Elle India

THE MANE ATTRACTION

When it comes to hair care, compromise simply isn't an option. With iluvia's expertly curated systems, you can cleanse, revive, and protect your hair without missing a beat. Let your locks thrive, from root to tip, with science-backed, innovative haircare ranges crafted for lasting shine, strength, and elegance.

time-read
1 min  |
October 2024
ELLE Beauty Hall of Fame
Elle India

ELLE Beauty Hall of Fame

Celebrating standout beauty products in every category, all earning ELLE's seal of approval through expert, editorial and public votes

time-read
1 min  |
October 2024
FULL THROTTLE
Elle India

FULL THROTTLE

F2 rising star Kush Maini on his racing journey & challenges in motorsport. Ekta Sinha hitches a ride

time-read
2 mins  |
October 2024
VIJAY VARMA MAN OF THE MOMENT
Elle India

VIJAY VARMA MAN OF THE MOMENT

Amidst the barrage of releases, Vijay Varma's dignified reticence is enveloped in thoughtful consideration, reports Ipsita Kaul

time-read
3 mins  |
October 2024
ROHIT SARAF THE GEN Z STAR
Elle India

ROHIT SARAF THE GEN Z STAR

The new generation heartthrob talks about his love for romcoms, music, and future endeavours with Ekta Sinha

time-read
3 mins  |
October 2024
Roaring RAJASTHAN
Elle India

Roaring RAJASTHAN

From Jawai's dramatic landscape and Jaisalmer's rich heritage to Ranthambore's enthralling wilderness-Isha Mayer explores SUJÁN's luxurious, eco-conscious hospitality offerings in the beautiful state

time-read
6 mins  |
October 2024
Ectoin: The Skin's New Defence
Elle India

Ectoin: The Skin's New Defence

Krishika Bhatia explores a revolutionary skincare breakthrough that merges nature and science, featuring insights from industry experts

time-read
2 mins  |
October 2024
Nigella's WORLD
Elle India

Nigella's WORLD

The British celebrity chef shares the secret recipe to her effortless charm in the kitchen with Isha Mayer

time-read
3 mins  |
October 2024
ADRIATIC DRIFT
Elle India

ADRIATIC DRIFT

Stari Grad is Croatia's hidden gem waiting to be explored, finds Isha Mayer

time-read
3 mins  |
October 2024