The '80s were a time of big hair, neon colors, and workout trends that would make even the most dedicated fitness enthusiast blush. But believe it or not, these workouts weren't just for fun – they actually worked! And now, after years of boring treadmill runs and weight machines, people are starting to rediscover the benefits of 80's style workouts.
The '80s were a time when people really started to focus on their health and wellbeing. We know the 1980s as the era of excess and conspicuous consumption. It was a time of dramatic hairstyles, bright clothing, luxury timepieces like the Rolex, and automobiles. It was a time to see and be seen. Naturally, that meant a focus on personal appearance. It was also a period when people began to realize the value of health and fitness. Overall, people in the 80s were much more health-conscious than they had been in previous decades. They realized that taking care of their bodies was important not only for their health but also for their quality of life.
Does my headband match my legwarmers?
Aerobics became a popular way to get in shape, thanks to Jane Fonda. The '80s were about big hair, big shoulder pads, and big aerobics classes. Jane Fonda was one of the first celebrities to jump on the fitness bandwagon, releasing a series of workout videos that became immensely popular. As more and more people began to appreciate the benefits of exercise, aerobics classes sprang up all over the country. The 80s were also the era of the "power suit," and many women began to see aerobics as a way to get in shape for their professional lives and combat the stresses of climbing the corporate ladder. The typical aerobics outfit consisted of a leotard, leg warmers, and a pair of high-top sneakers, often with a headband or bow. This 80's icon is still going strong today as an accomplished actress, and her original workout videos still available for purchase. Our family had a few that we watched in rotation. They weren't just a workout, they often included a bit of storytelling and comedy.
If you grew up in the '80s, then you remember how popular Jazzercise was. It was the perfect combination of cardio and dance, set to some of the best 80s workout music. You could burn calories and have fun at the same time. It was the best of both worlds. Even though Jazzercise is no longer as popular as it once was, it's still a great workout. And if you're looking for a blast from the past, there's nothing like 80's workout music to get your heart pumping. At some point, Jazzercise evolved into Zumba and U-Jam, which added elements of Latin Salsa, Reggaeton, and Hip Hop. They both follow the same premise – that working out can be fun.
Billy Blanks has entered the chat.
Tae Bo was introduced and quickly became popular for its intense workout routine. Tae Bo combined martial arts and boxing, promising a more intense workout than just aerobics. Music also began to play a bigger role in these classes, with 80's and 90's classics like "Eye of the Tiger" and "Pump up the Jam" getting people pumped up for their workout. Tae Bo quickly became popular, thanks to its intense routines and motivating music. The rise of Tae Bo and the growing popularity of UFC and Mixed Martial Arts paved the way for other formats like Body Combat which uses Muay Thai and Capoeira and created the rise of boxing gyms.
"I get along with a little help from my friends"
pssst... They're all celebrities
In the 1980s, power yoga and Pilates were all the rage. Power Yoga is based on the Ashtanga style which was created by Beryl Bender Birch in 1984; it became popular thanks to NYC modern dancers Martha Graham who used these movements for rehabilitation after an injury during their performances.
Pilates originated when Joseph Pilates developed exercises that would help people recover more quickly following surgery or other physical trauma. He became a stalwart in the NYC ballet community. With the help of Carola Trier, one of his students, he opened a studio where people could come and learn these new exercises. Celebrities like Madonna, Sting, and Christy Turlington were all fans of Pilates.
In the 1970s Pilates moved from NYC to Hollywood, and the celebrities followed. Ron Fletcher's studio in Hollywood was regularly visited by elite athletes from the NFL, NBA, MLS, NHL, and Olympians. Fletcher's students included Cher, Barbra Streisand, and Anthony Perkins. Fletcher's work was the inspiration for what is now known as "The Pilates Method."
Both Power Yoga and Pilates require concentration and focus; they emphasize controlled movement and breath. It's the mind-body connection that makes yoga and Pilates still relevant today.
Power yoga and Pilates are both forms of exercise that focus on strengthening the core muscles. In the 1980s, people were looking for ways to stay fit and healthy. Power yoga and Pilates were two of the most popular forms of exercise. People were attracted to the idea of strengthening their core muscles and improving their overall health.
Video Home System
The fitness VHS rose to prominence in the 1980s, making it easier than ever to get a solid workout from the comfort of your own home. Some of the most popular videos were Jane Fonda's Workout, Denise Austin's Shape Up with Stretch, The Firm, and Buns of Steel. The '80s were also the decade of the workout montage, thanks to movies like Rocky and Karate Kid. These movies inspired people to get off the couch and into the gym. Arnold Schwarzenegger also ruled the 80's. He was the epitome of 80's fitness. His movie, Pumping Iron, inspired a generation of gym-goers. The '80s were a great decade for workout trends. There was something for everyone, whether you wanted to dance your way to fitness or lift some weights.
The rise of spandex
Although spandex aka "The Wonder Fiber" was created in the 1950s, it was in the 1980s that it really shined. As workout clothes became more form-fitting and revealing, women began to wear leotards and tights with short skirts over them. This trend was started by celebrities such as Jane Fonda and Olivia Newton-John, who popularized the idea of working out in tight, revealing clothing. The trend soon spread to the mainstream, and spandex became a staple of 80s fashion. While some of these trends have since faded, spandex remains a popular fabric for workout clothes today.
There's something special about 80's workout music. It's fun, energetic, and full of optimism. 80's workout songs often have a strong beat that keeps people moving and motivated. The best 80's workout music is the perfect way to get pumped up for a workout. It can help you forget about your cares and focus on the task at hand. 80's workout music is the perfect way to get your blood flowing and your heart pumping. So put on your favorite '80s workout tunes and get ready to sweat!
Fast forward to today
Just a few short years ago, going to the gym was the norm. But then came the pandemic, which forced gyms and studios to shut their doors. Suddenly, people who wanted to stay fit had to find new ways to work out. That's where at-home fitness comes in. streaming services like Obe Fitness and The Tracy Anderson Method became extremely popular, as people looked for ways to stay active while staying at home. And thanks to social media, some of the most popular workout trends from the 80s are making a comeback. People are rediscovering the benefits of these old-school workouts, and they're realizing that you don't need a fancy gym membership to stay in shape. So whether you're busting out some Jane Fonda moves or doing some Denise Austin aerobics, there's no doubt that at-home workouts are here to stay.
The 80s are making a comeback!. People are interested in high-energy, fun-filled workouts similar to aerobics classes and away from programming like Crossfit, which can be hard on your body and joints. Plus, attention-grabbing workout outfits are making a comeback. Everyone is coming out of the pandemic with new optimism and a need for social connection. Check out our Spotify playlist and our best 80s-themed items to get in the spirit!