3 min readNew DelhiApr 3, 2026 11:00 PM ISTSuhasini Maniratnam shares about her fitness routine (Photo: Suhasini Maniratnam/Instagram)Suhasini Maniratnam, 64, recently shared her fitness routine. “I do Zumba. I do Salsa. I have just started Bharatanatyam at the age of 63. My teacher is saying…you are ready for Arangetram? I am saying, No, I am not dancing for the audience. I am dancing for myself,” she told author Sudha Menon on the SecondSunrise podcast.The Tamil actor’s statement reinforces an important message: movement is essential at any age. Starting later in life may require more caution, but it’s never too late to build strength, flexibility, and endurance. “Activities like dance not only support physical health but also enhance mental well-being, coordination, and confidence. The goal should not be intensity but consistency and safety. With the right approach, even demanding art forms can be adapted and enjoyed well into later years,” said Dr Sarang Deshpande, consultant, orthopedics and joint replacement, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, while adding that age by itself is not a limitation.DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.What matters more is the individual’s fitness level, joint health, and medical history. Classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam require strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination, he said. “If someone starts gradually, under proper guidance, and with prior medical clearance, it can actually improve joint mobility and muscle strength. However, a sudden, intense start without conditioning may raise the risk of strain or injury,” said Dr Deshpande. View this post on Instagram A post shared by m4marry Second Marry (@m4marrysecondmarry)Bharatanatyam includes deep knee bends, repetitive stamping, and intricate footwork. “These movements can put pressure on the knee joints and ankles, especially if there is pre-existing arthritis or ligament weakness. The lower back can also be affected if posture is not maintained correctly. That said, with proper technique and gradual progression, these risks can be significantly reduced,” said Dr Deshpande.Warming up before practice and cooling down afterwards is crucial. Strengthening exercises, particularly for the quadriceps and core muscles, help support joints and lessen stress. “It’s also important to wear proper footwear during practice sessions where applicable and to train on shock-absorbing surfaces to reduce impact,” said Dr Deshpande.DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine. For more lifestyle news, click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and also follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdAdvertisementLoading Recommendations...Apr 03: Latest NewsJapan thrash India 6-0 in U20 Women’s Women’s Asian CupAfter pushback from airlines, Govt puts on hold order mandating 60% free seats on flightsWhere do Praggnanandhaa, Vaishali and Divya Deshmukh stand after four rounds at the Candidates? A mixed bag so farFIR over circulation of leaked, misleading, edited FSSAI documents on social mediaIn the birthright citizenship hearing, a story of Asians fighting for rightsLive BlogCSK vs PBKS LIVE Score, IPL 2026 Today Match Updates: Shreyas Iyer takes over big-hitting duties; Punjab Kings (177/3) vs Chennai Super Kings1 minute agoIran, US-Israel War News Live Updates: One crew member onboard downed US jet rescued, says report16 minutes agoDubai Iran War News Live Updates: 5 Indians among 12 injured after missile interception debris falls in Abu Dhabi16 minutes agoAssembly Elections 2026 Live Updates: UDF is renewed hope for people of Kerala, says Rahul Gandhi2 hours agoDhurandhar 2 Box Office Collection Day 15 LIVE: Ranveer Singh film storms past Rs 1,500 cr mark worldwide; crosses Rs 15 cr mark in India on Friday2 hours ago