Mumbai, Aug 24 (IANS): Actress Malaika Arora Khan, who has always maintained her slim frame over the years, considers fitness not only a crucial part of her life but a "religion".

"For me, fitness is a religion. It's not just about going to the gym and picking up some weight and all that for me," said Malaika at the launch of a new centre of Transcend Fitness Club where she was present along with her husband Arbaaz Khan.

"Fitness is my life. Without fitness, I feel that I would be an incomplete person. My life is covered by fitness. I really propagate fitness and healthy living. I'm glad that we can be here to spread that awareness and to let people know that fitness is very essential," she added.

Malaika had arrived on the big stage with her item number "Chaiyya Chaiyya" along with Shah Rukh Khan in "Dil Se". The "hot" tag that got associated with her with the song has stayed with her and only got enhanced over the years with other hot numbers and fashion appearances. This is admirable considering she is a mother to 12-year-old Arhaan.

About the secret behind her fit body, she said: "My husband and my son keep me on my toes and keep me constantly busy. They really do. That's the secret of my fitness. But there are a lot of people in my life over the years that I'm really thankful to. They've really been there to guide me and tell me what's right and what's wrong because I really enjoy fitness."

Malaika was last seen in the item song, "Fashion Khatam Mujh Par" in the Sonam Kapoor-starrer "Dolly Ki Doli" which was her own production.