15 ’80s Fitness Fads That Have Completely Vanished
This list shows 15 fitness trends from the 1980s that were once popular but are now mostly forgotten.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
The 1980s were full of bright outfits and energetic workouts. Many people joined fitness trends like aerobics, Jazzercise, and home workout videos. These fads were everywhere back then but have mostly disappeared today. Here are 15 of them that many people forgot about.
1. Aerobics Classes
www.localfitness.com.au on Wikimedia Commons
Aerobics classes were loud, sweaty, and full of neon colors. They brought people together in studios to jump, kick, and dance to upbeat music. The moves may seem outdated now, but they helped shape the modern group workout scene.
2. Leg Warmers and Lycra
David Jones on Wikimedia Commons
These were worn more for style than for performance. Leg warmers paired with shiny Lycra bodysuits became the unofficial uniform of 1980s fitness. It was more about looking the part than staying warm during a workout.
3. Jane Fonda Workout Videos
Georges Biard on Wikimedia Commons
Jane Fonda’s tapes turned living rooms into makeshift gyms. Her encouraging voice and choreographed routines made exercise feel less intimidating. Millions followed her workouts on VHS, sparking a whole new fitness culture.
4. Jazzercise
Archives New Zealand from New Zealand on Wikimedia Commons
Jazzercise combined dance, strength training, and a whole lot of energy. It gave people a way to have fun while staying fit, often in large group settings. Even though it still exists today, its heyday was definitely in the 1980s.
5. Step Aerobics
myself on Wikimedia Commons
Step aerobics involved rhythmic routines using a small plastic platform. It was both challenging and fun, though not everyone could keep up. Some people dropped out after a few bruised shins and twisted ankles.
6. Richard Simmons’ “Sweatin’ to the Oldies”
Bonnie Schiffman; Distributed by Elektra Records on Wikimedia Commons
Richard Simmons brought music and emotion to his workouts. He created a space where everyone felt welcome, no matter their shape or skill level. His cheerful attitude made people feel good about moving their bodies.
7. ThighMaster
Kindel Media on Pexels
The ThighMaster promised stronger thighs with just a few squeezes a day. It was small, portable, and easy to use, which helped it sell millions. Even if the results were questionable, the gadget became a pop culture hit.
8. Shake Weight
Flickr User: Herrea; Artwork: Shake Weight on Wikimedia Commons
The Shake Weight became a punchline as fast as it became a trend. Its jiggly motion raised eyebrows, but people were still curious enough to try it. It did not last long, but it left a lasting impression.
9. Tae Bo
U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 1st Class Mark Rankin on Wikimedia Commons
Tae Bo brought martial arts into the world of cardio. Created by Billy Blanks, it gave people a high-intensity way to burn calories. It was a hit for a while, though many found it too intense for daily routines.
10. Jogging Craze
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Jogging took off in the 1980s thanks to books and word of mouth. People laced up their sneakers and hit the streets in droves. It was simple, effective, and made exercise part of everyday life.
11. Home Workout Machines
Nenad Stojkovic on Wikimedia Commons
Bulky treadmills and bikes filled basements and spare rooms. People believed they could get gym results without leaving the house. Most machines ended up collecting dust, but the idea stuck around.
12. Reebok Freestyle
ReebokUSA on Wikimedia Commons
These sneakers were made just for women and became a favorite for aerobics. Their sleek look and bright colors matched the vibe of the times. Although Reebok still exists, this specific style faded from the spotlight.
13. VHS Fitness Archives
Jacek Halicki on Wikimedia Commons
Fitness tapes filled shelves in the 1980s and early 1990s. Stars like Debbie Reynolds and Kathy Smith led routines right from the TV screen. Today, these tapes are collector’s items or long-forgotten in storage boxes.
14. Sweatbands
Sirquine on Wikimedia Commons
Sweatbands were everywhere during ’80s workouts. They were more about the look than the function, though they did keep sweat off the face. Today, they mostly appear in costume parties or retro workout nights.
15. Body by Jake
Begaye-Nez OPVP on Wikimedia Commons
Jake Steinfeld became a fitness icon through his “Body by Jake” brand. He offered motivational workouts on TV and helped turn fitness into entertainment. His upbeat attitude and catchphrases made people feel like they could actually stick to their goals.