Step into the 80s: The Ultimate Guide to Fitness Trends
The 1980s were a decade of big hair, bright colors, and even bigger fitness trends. From Jane Fonda’s iconic workout videos to the rise of aerobics classes, the 80s saw a major shift in how people approached exercise. In this ultimate guide to fitness trends from the 80s, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular workout crazes of the decade and explore how they’ve influenced fitness culture today.
The Rise of Aerobics
One of the most significant fitness trends of the 80s was the rise of aerobics classes. Led by instructors like Jane Fonda and Richard Simmons, these high-energy classes involved a combination of dance-inspired moves, cardio exercises, and strength training. Aerobics classes quickly became a cultural phenomenon, and by the mid-80s, they were seen as a staple of the fitness industry.
While aerobics classes may not be as popular today, they’ve had a lasting impact on how people approach working out. Many modern workout routines incorporate elements of cardio and strength training, a legacy of the aerobics craze that swept the nation in the 80s.
The Emergence of High-Intensity Training
Another major fitness trend of the 80s was the emergence of high-intensity training. This style of workout involved short, intense bursts of exercise followed by periods of rest. While high-intensity training has become much more popular in recent years, it was first introduced in the 80s by pioneering trainers like Arthur Jones.
Today, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is one of the most popular workout styles around, with gyms and fitness studios offering a wide range of HIIT-inspired classes. Those who want to take their workouts to the next level often turn to tools like kettlebells, resistance bands, and other equipment that originated in the 80s.
Functional Fitness and Bodyweight Training
The 80s also saw the rise of functional fitness and bodyweight training, which focused on building strength and endurance through everyday movements. This style of workout was popularized by military personnel, who needed to maintain a high level of fitness without access to fancy gym equipment.
Today, functional fitness remains a popular way to work out, with routines like CrossFit and other HIIT-inspired workouts incorporating elements of bodyweight training. Many people are also turning to calisthenics and other bodyweight-focused workouts as a way to stay fit without the need for expensive equipment.
The Role of Technology in Fitness
Finally, the 80s saw the emergence of technology in fitness. From electronic treadmills to personal heart rate monitors, this decade saw a major shift in how people approached exercise. While the technology of the 80s may seem outdated today, it laid the groundwork for many of the fitness technologies we take for granted today.
From fitness apps to wearable fitness trackers, modern technology has made it easier than ever to track our workouts and stay motivated. And while today’s fitness landscape may look very different from the 80s, it’s clear that the innovations of that decade set the stage for many of today’s most popular trends.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a dedicated fitness enthusiast or just looking for some inspiration to kickstart your workout routine, the fitness trends of the 80s offer plenty of insights and inspiration. From the rise of aerobics to the emergence of functional fitness and bodyweight training, the 80s were a decade of innovation and change in the world of fitness. By understanding the history of these trends, we can gain a better understanding of how to approach fitness today and create workout routines that work best for our unique needs and aspirations.
