80s Fitness: Its Timeless Stamp on Modern Fitness

Let's hop into a time machine and rewind to the era of 80s fitness—when jazzercise outfits were more vibrant than your Instagram feed and aerobics instructors were as famous as today's top YouTubers.

The 1980s bodybuilders were also the OG influencers, inspiring gym routines and blueprints way before social media hashtags were a thing.

Fast-forward, and we still feel the ripple effect of those 80s fitness vibes in today's modern health and fitness era.

In this article, we'll touch on everything from the 80s gym culture to the iconic 80s aerobic videos, the highs of the 80s fitness instructor and the lows of the food trends of the 80s—overall explaining the era's timeless stamp on modern fitness.

So lace up those high tops—we're about to explore how the 80s shaped the modern fitness world, proving that some vibes are too good to fade away.

80s Gym Style: The Evolution of Fitness Fashion

Let's start with the fashion of the 1980s gym and workout videos and how they impacted modern sportswear.

Picture it: 80s fitness enthusiasts all wearing bright leotards, leg warmers pulled up high, headbands perfectly positioned to catch every bit of sweat, and overall, just being dressed to impress with 80s fitness outfits that weren't solely about standing out in the aerobics classes—but also about making a statement beyond the gym walls.

Fast-forward to today; even though the loudness, shimmer, and shine from the 1980s gym has been toned down, we've only swapped them for compression garments, sculpting leggings, caps, tank tops, sports shirts and revived classic sneakers that tip their hats to their 1980s origins—allowing you to stamp your unique look during your workouts today.

Even speaking solely beyond fitness, and with fashion typically cyclical, we've seen a return of '80s fashion across a societal landscape–hit television series like Stranger Things have also brought back the '80s aesthetic era's iconic styles.

Overall, the 80s taught you to be bold and individualistic in your fitness fashion, and decades later, that lesson remains in the DNA of modern workout attire.

Era-Defining Icons: 80s Fitness Instructors and Bodybuilders

The 80s fitness scene was a playground for icons with a strong reputation in the fitness world, and even more so in pop culture.

Group exercise boomed in the 1980s; you could take Jane Fonda as an example. She was a titan among 80s fitness instructors.

She revolutionised the fitness industry with her jazzercise outfits and her "Jane Fonda's Workout" VHS tapes. These became some of the most popular aerobic videos of the era and are even among the best-selling VHS tapes of all time.

Her fitness empire was further boosted by her best-selling book, "Jane Fonda's Workout Book."

While we remain in the '80s, we can also examine 80s bodybuilding. Only one name stands out from this era, like a skyscraper in a skyline: Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The Austrian Oak didn't just raise the bar regarding 80s gym culture; he was a worldwide icon whose influence extended way beyond the walls of the 1980's gym. He used his 80s bodybuilding aura and clout as the launchpad for a career in Hollywood, starting the trend for what fitness stars commonly do today.

Nowadays, you only need to log into your Netflix account to see various sports and fitness stars in documentaries or movies.

Now that we've fast-forwarded to the present with Netflix and movies, one significant example of an icon who combines the worlds of fitness, movies, and Hollywood, mirroring Arnold, is Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.

Transitioning from wrestling to cinema, The Rock carries the torch lit by trendsetters from the 1980's gym, bringing his workout intensity, brand, and inspiration to millions worldwide. His workouts, often shared on social media, pay respects to the raw energy of 80's work out videos.

Parallel to The Rock's mass appeal, the digital age has given rise to household fitness industry names such as Jeff Cavaliere of ATHLEAN-X, who dominates the virtual training space and is just one of the many massive fitness YouTube channels.

His channel has over 14 million subscribers–more than the entire population of Portugal. The instructional nature of Jeff's channel echoes that of its 80s exercise videos counterpart, such as Jane Fonda's, with over 1,400 videos on his channel.

Of course, these videos generally have much more depth today, but arguably, the 80s fitness instructors on VHS laid the foundation.

The golden age of 80s fitness may seem distant, but the ripple effect that started with VHS, movies and branding continues to impact today's fitness movements with its timeless stamp.

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80's Exercise Revolution: New Fitness Forms

The 80s gym classes and 80s yoga were as much about community and socialising as they were about exercising. The appeal of a fun group workout was massive. This is where the 80s workout meets its modern-era remix.

Of course, the 80s fitness outfits previously worn have evolved into high-performance gear, but take CrossFit and Zumba, for instance. The sweat-drenched, heart-pumping exercise sessions are pure '80s power. Still, once you add the community vibe, catchy music, and joy–CrossFit and Zumba are almost like a modern and more global cousin of those 80s aerobic videos.

You also can't forget today's popular MMA-inspired workouts, sharing the same DNA as those 1980s bodybuilders regarding discipline, determination, and the grit to maximise personal potential.

You've got the strength and conditioning wave, too. It's the scientific approach that the 80s fitness instructors were only beginning to tap into, refined by decades of progress and research–and as someone who's graduated with a master's degree in strength and conditioning, it's incredible to see how far it's come.

Then, finally, it's also essential to discuss running. Of course, this isn't a new form of exercise. However, it's being mentioned because the 80s was when running transformed from a competitive sport to a widespread fitness trend and an 80's exercise approach for all, primarily thanks to the publication of "The Complete Book of Running" by James Fixx in 1977.

This book became a bestseller and inspired millions of Americans to take up running as exercise.

Running became cool, and today's ripple effect from the 80s came through in various forms, such as emerging specialised running shoes. Now, more prominent than ever thanks to companies such as Nike, Adidas and Puma making the most of what started then.

How about all of that for a timeless stamp from 80s fitness?

80s Workout Mindset: Evolving Philosophies in Fitness

In the '80s, working out was mainly for aesthetics and looking like the folks in the aerobics videos and the 1980's bodybuilders. However, it's safe to say that we've broadened our horizons since then.

Today, it's a little less about getting that Schwarzenegger or Olivia Newton-John physique (although respect where it's due) because it's also about how we feel.

Of course, social media and marketing have made fitness standards and expectations even more unrealistic. However, it must also be appreciated that society is doing a much better job emphasising wellness, mobility, mental function and holistic aspects.

Today's fitness brands such as MindPump and individuals such as Sohee Lee, Ben Carpenter, Jordan Syatt, and even myself (if I do say so) are examples of those who ensure they always emphasise that the latter is as, and if not more, necessary.

Overall, the fitness industry has taken the 'go hard' spirit of the 80s gym teacher and, in some aspects, exacerbated it further. Still, we've also balanced it with a self-care vibe.

Note:

If you want a free workout plan that will help with your physical and mental health, click here to download it.

80s Fitness Diet: From Retro Trends to Modern Nutrition

In the 1980s, nutrition education was less prevalent than today. Many fitness professionals, 1980s bodybuilders, aerobic instructors and 80s gym teachers did not have much nutrition education–nor was it as easily accessible. Word of mouth and books were the main go-to's, although, at the time, it would've been hard to verify their credibility.

This means that there's a bunch that can be discussed.

For example, in the '80s, "low-fat" was promoted as the be-all-and-end-all. Everything from skim milk to low-fat snack foods flew off the shelves, all in pursuit of the lean, muscular physiques sported by 80s fitness instructors and 80s female bodybuilders.

However, thanks to the movement that started then, our knowledge and understanding of fats have evolved. Nowadays, the demonisation of all fats has been replaced with an appreciation for healthy fats—think avocados, nuts, and olive oil. These were foods barely mentioned in food trends of the 80s.

Another trend that's left a timeless stamp on modern times is the organic and local food movement–which were whispers back in the days of 80s yoga classes and 80s gyms. Nowadays, these have become a roar. Farmers' markets and organic produce are no longer niche but mainstream.

You could also take "The Beverly Hills Diet". In summary, this diet is based on the principle that the specific order and combinations in which foods are eaten affect weight gain. It also exclusively involves fruit for the first ten days.

The diet's glamorous name and celebrity endorsements are prime examples of how fad diets began to intertwine with pop culture, adding momentum to a growing trend of focusing on quick fixes rather than sustainable health.

Today, we see a similar restrictive dieting pattern with juice cleanses and detox teas, which, despite their modern branding, echo the desire for instant results seen in the 80s fitness dieting world.

Overall, it does seem that in recent times, the focus has pivoted from merely losing weight or looking like a 1980s bodybuilder to understanding nutrition's role in overall wellness—a lesson perhaps learned from the excessive dieting trends of the '80s, when almost everything was done for aesthetics.

80s Fitness Flashbacks: Iconic Moments and Trends

Tony Britts' "That's It" Video:

The well-known Tony Britts' "That's It" workout video showcases the dynamic and spirited approach of 80s fitness instructors, mirrored in social media workouts today.

Olivia Newton-John's "Let's Get Physical":

Newton-John's anthem was a go-to song for 80's exercise routines. Today, its catchy chorus still lives on, proving the 80s workout mindset—blending fun and fitness—is timeless.

The "Buns of Steel" Workout Series:

"Buns of Steel" was a precursor to today's fitness apps and YouTube videos that focus on working specific body parts. The emphasis on the glutes and lower body remains a staple in classes popularised by the 1980’s gym.

Richard Simmons' "Sweatin' to the Oldies":

The inclusive and joyful 1980's gym workouts that Simmons promoted have greatly influenced today's fitness philosophy, which encourages wellness for all people regardless of age or body type.

Crystal Light National Aerobic Championship:

This championship was a televised spectacle, celebrating the 80s fitness outfits and the fun, upbeat group workouts. Its spirit lives on in the social aspect of group classes and fitness communities.

Muscle and Fitness Magazine:

Throughout the '80s, Muscle and Fitness magazine bridged the gap between professional 80s bodybuilding and the average gym-goer. This approach gained strength and momentum as magazines became increasingly prevalent throughout the ‘90s and ‘00s, eventually transitioning into the digital world.

80s Fitness Legacy: Enduring Influence on Modern Workouts

Isn't it wild how those timeless 80s fitness stamps, from the bold jazzercise outfits to the community spirit of aerobic videos, still shape our workouts today?

We've come a long way since the 1980s, especially in our understanding of nutrition and fitness. Yet, those vibrant vibes from the past continue to influence us.

I'd love to know: what's your favourite fitness trend from the 80s that you think should make a comeback?

If this trip down memory lane has inspired you, why not join me in 1-2-1 online coaching? There are no geographical barriers (unlike in the 80s), just a coaching experience tailored to you.

You can inquire for free here.

Speak soon,

Leo

P.S. Got a friend who's still rocking those 80s leg warmers or a family member who'd love a nostalgia trip? Share this article with them!