14 Retro Fitness TV Shows That Have Disappeared
This article looks back at 14 vintage fitness shows that once ruled the airwaves but are no longer on TV today.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
These fitness shows were once a regular part of people’s mornings. They featured energetic instructors, bright workout gear, and catchy music. Most disappeared as trends changed and people turned to home videos and streaming. This list brings back 14 of the most memorable ones.
1. The Jack LaLanne Show (1951–1985)
Photographer: Cliff Riddle, Hollywood on Wikimedia Commons
Jack LaLanne was one of the first fitness personalities to reach a national TV audience. His show taught simple exercises that anyone could follow right from their living room. His charm and consistency kept viewers tuning in for decades.
2. Aerobics Oz Style (1982–2005)
myself on Wikimedia Commons
This Australian workout show featured vibrant instructors leading high-energy routines in bright outfits. It was filmed outdoors in beautiful locations, which added to its appeal. The show gained international popularity and aired in over 80 countries.
3. Jane Fonda’s Workout (1980s)
Verhoeff, Bert / Anefo on Wikimedia Commons
Jane Fonda helped launch the home workout boom with her best-selling VHS tapes. Her routines were upbeat, stylish, and designed to make fitness feel approachable. She became one of the most influential figures in at-home exercise history.
4. Sweatin’ to the Oldies with Richard Simmons
Del Far on Wikimedia Commons
Richard Simmons brought joy to fitness with his energetic moves and old-school music. His approach was more about having fun than chasing perfection. He made people of all body types feel welcome in the workout world.
5. Denise Austin: Hips, Thighs & Buttocks
The Heart Truth on Wikimedia Commons
Denise Austin’s upbeat personality and targeted routines made her a household name. She focused on toning common trouble spots without overwhelming viewers. Her sunny style and pastel-colored sets made workouts feel more like a friendly chat.
6. CherFitness: Body Confidence (1992)
Ian Smith from London, England on Wikimedia Commons
Cher combined pop star charisma with tough dance routines in her fitness video. Her message encouraged strength and self-assurance through movement. Fans loved working out alongside her bold personality and catchy music.
7. The Marky Mark Workout (1993)
Toglenn on Wikimedia Commons
Before becoming a movie star, Mark Wahlberg led his own workout video as Marky Mark. It featured basic strength exercises and a lot of shirtless flexing. The video became more known for its style than its actual fitness content.
8. Cindy Crawford: Shape Your Body
Kingkongphoto & www.celebrity-photos.com from Laurel Maryland, USA on Wikimedia Commons
Cindy Crawford’s workout was designed to be graceful and effective. She focused on toning and stretching while maintaining good posture. Her video had a calm tone that set it apart from louder, more energetic programs.
9. La Toya Jackson: Step Up
Unknown author on Wikimedia Commons
La Toya Jackson brought her own twist to the step aerobics trend. Her routines were casual and easy to follow, making it great for beginners. It felt more like a fun hangout than a serious workout.
10. Suzanne Somers: ThighMaster Toning System
The Heart Truth on Wikimedia Commons
Suzanne Somers helped sell millions of ThighMasters with her cheerful attitude and simple workouts. Her video showed how to use the gadget for toning exercises. The product became a pop culture icon, even if it was sometimes seen as gimmicky.
11. ESPN2 Fitness Beach
ESPN on Wikimedia Commons
This show featured fitness instructors exercising outdoors on sunny beaches. It combined light strength training with stretching, all set to upbeat music. It eventually disappeared as ESPN shifted toward sports coverage full-time.
12. Body Buddies
myself on Wikimedia Commons
Bernard and Jeanne Ernst led this couple-based fitness show together. Their routines focused on teamwork, motivation, and shared progress. It was one of the few shows that encouraged working out with a partner.
13. Gilad: Bodies in Motion
U.S. Navy photo by Storekeeper 1st Class Blaine W. Smith on Wikimedia Commons
Gilad’s workouts aired on ESPN and quickly became a fan favorite. His routines focused on strength, flexibility, and cardio, often filmed in tropical Hawaii. His calm but firm teaching style helped viewers stay motivated.
14. 20-Minute Workout (1983–1985)
sookie from Vancouver, Canada on Wikimedia Commons
This Canadian-produced show featured a group of women performing fast-paced aerobic routines in unison. It aired in the early morning and was known for its synth-heavy soundtrack and leotard-heavy style. The show gained a cult following for its retro charm and efficient, no-nonsense workouts.