17 ’80s Aerobic Class Accessories That Are No Longer Used
They may be gone, but they still bring back bold memories of that colorful era.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
This list shows 17 aerobics accessories that were popular in the 1980s but are no longer used today. They were bright, bold, and full of personality. Many were more about style than function. You might remember seeing them in old workout videos or packed gym classes.
1. Iconic Leotard
Flying Fox Leotards on Wikimedia Commons
Leotards were the heart of every ’80s aerobics outfit. They hugged their bodies tightly and made movements easy during fast-paced routines. The bright colors and high-cut designs helped set the energetic tone of every class.
2. Toasty Leg Warmers
Konstantin Mishchenko on Pexels
Leg warmers were meant to keep calves warm before and after workouts. People wore them over tights or bare legs, and they added a fun pop of texture. Even if you were barely breaking a sweat, they still made you look ready to dance.
3. Volume Over Function
Quinn Dombrowski on Wikimedia Commons
Hair in the ’80s was big, bold, and full of hairspray. Whether it was a teased perm or a curly mullet, it stood tall during every jump and stretch. Fitness classes looked more like fashion shows than gym sessions.
4. Scrunchie Power
Scrunchies were the go-to accessory for tying back hair without damage. They came in every color imaginable and matched perfectly with neon outfits. Even when sweaty, they made messy buns look like part of the plan on Wikimedia Commons
Scrunchies were the go-to accessory for tying back hair without damage. They came in every color imaginable and matched perfectly with neon outfits. Even when sweaty, they made messy buns look like part of the plan.
5. Fashion Forward Coverage
Mikhail Nilov on Wikimedia Commons
Wearing high-cut briefs over tights was a bold choice that became completely normal. It gave extra coverage without hiding the figure-hugging style people loved. This layered look became a signature part of the aerobics uniform.
6. Piled-Up Socks
David Jones on Wikimedia Commons
Scrunched-down socks were worn in layers, often over leggings or tights. They served almost no purpose other than looking fun and exaggerated. The chunkier they were, the more stylish you looked during class.
7. Sweat Does Not Mean Style is Gone
Ron Lach on Pexels
Headbands soaked up forehead sweat but also doubled as a style choice. They came in thick terrycloth or thin elastic, often matching the rest of the outfit. No aerobics look felt complete without one firmly across the forehead.
8. Glow in the Gym
Tatiana Sozutova on Pexels
Neon colors ruled every corner of the aerobics world. Bright pink, lime green, and electric blue were popular picks for leotards, tights, and accessories. These colors guaranteed that no one would fade into the background.
9. Print Frenzy
myself on Wikimedia Commons
Wild prints took over the gym with stripes, zigzags, animal prints, and polka dots. Each outfit was a chance to show personality and flair. Matching patterns was optional, but standing out was practically required.
10. Stirrup Tights
Tobias ToMar Maier on Wikimedia Commons
Spandex tights with stirrups kept the fabric in place under sneakers or bare feet. The loops added a sleek finish and helped everything stay smooth during kicks and squats. These tights became a staple for their comfort and clean look.
11. Cinched Waists
Suho226 on Wikimedia Commons
Belts worn over leotards were not about function, but about shaping the waist. They turned workout outfits into fashion statements without needing extra layers. Whether elastic or plastic, the belt pulled everything together.
12. Flashdance Slouch
Tolga Aslantürk on Pexels
Oversized sweatshirts worn off one shoulder gave a relaxed look that felt effortlessly cool. They were often tossed over leotards for warm-ups or cool-downs. This offbeat layering style came straight from the movie screen into the fitness studio.
13. Velcro High-Tops
Kaupaickehran on Wikimedia Commons
White aerobic sneakers were designed for comfort and support during fast routines. Many had Velcro straps for quick on and off without tying laces. Their clean, high-top style became part of the uniform in every step-touch class.
14. Biker Chic
nuestrociclismo.com from Colombia on Wikimedia Commons
Biker shorts were tight, stretchy, and perfect for movement. They offered more coverage than briefs but still showed off toned legs. People wore them solo or under longer layers for extra versatility.
15. Track and Stand Out
Kyle Cassidy on Wikimedia Commons
Tracksuits made of shiny nylon or polyester were common during warm-ups. Their bold color blocking and zip-up jackets gave a sporty edge to the whole look. These suits often matched from top to bottom for full effect.
16. Couple’s Aesthetic
Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels
Some couples dressed in matching workout gear to show unity and fun. Whether it was color-coordinated outfits or exact duplicates, it turned heads. These pairs became walking advertisements for aerobics as a lifestyle.
17. Workout at Home
Jonmallard on Wikimedia Commons
VHS workout tapes brought the aerobics class into living rooms everywhere. Jane Fonda led the trend, followed by countless other fitness stars. People could wear all their accessories and follow along without ever leaving the house.