Retro Fitness Trends We Can’t Get Enough Of (Remember Jazzercise?)

When it comes to fitness, what's old is new again. Over the years, exercise trends have come and gone, but some retro fitness routines are making a big comeback, reminding us there’s something timeless about moving to the beat of a classic workout. Whether it’s the fun factor, the incredible calorie burn, or the nostalgia that brings these trends roaring back, one thing’s for sure - we’re here for it. If you’re ready to take a trip down memory lane and, maybe, pick up some new-old moves along the way, here are the retro fitness trends we just can’t get enough of.

The Return of Jazzercise 

Ah, Jazzercise. Just the mention of it conjures images of neon leotards, leg warmers, and bright headbands. But what is it about this iconic workout from the late 1970s and ‘80s that’s giving it a second wind in gyms and studios today?

What Is Jazzercise?

Jazzercise was created by Judi Sheppard Missett in 1969, blending jazz dance with aerobics. Designed to be as fun as it was effective, it allowed participants to burn calories while grooving to upbeat music. Think coordinated routines with plenty of lunges, kicks, and arm sweeps.

Why Is It Making a Comeback? 

The recent Jazzercise revival taps into its key appeal points:

Sense of fun: People are looking for workouts that don’t feel like a chore, and Jazzercise brings the party.

Community vibe: Like in its heyday, today’s Jazzercise classes foster a sense of camaraderie in a non-judgmental environment.

Retro aesthetic: The fashion might be optional, but there’s no denying the joy of throwing on a bright leotard and channeling your inner ‘80s star.

Modern classes combine classic moves with updated music and choreography, proving it’s a trend that adapts to the times while keeping its retro charm.

Step Aerobics Are Back! 

Remember step aerobics? This high-energy workout dominated the ‘90s, with its simple but effective routines using a raised platform. After somewhat fading into obscurity, it’s found a home again among fitness lovers—and for good reason.

Why Do People Love Step Aerobics? 

Step aerobics is low-impact but high-intensity, making it easy on the joints while delivering a serious cardiovascular workout. It also targets the legs and glutes, making it a popular choice for building lower body strength.

New Twists on an Old Favorite 

Today’s step classes often incorporate modern music, strength training elements, and even virtual platforms to track progress. But the essence of the workout is unchanged, proving that sometimes the basics are all you need.

Roller Skating for Fitness 

The roller disco craze of the ‘70s wasn’t just about hanging out at the rink. Roller skating is a fantastic workout, engaging your core, working your lower body, and improving balance. Now it’s back under the fitness spotlight, with a newer focus on health and wellness.

Why It’s Rolling Back Into Popularity 

There’s something undeniably cool and freeing about claiming a pair of skates and hitting the pavement or rink. And with the added social media influence (hello, TikTok roller skate stars!), people are realizing it’s as fun now as it was then.

Roller skating also happens to torch calories, with studies suggesting you can burn as much as 600 calories per hour while cruising to your favorite retro playlist.

The Timeless Appeal of Dance Workouts 

From Jane Fonda’s legendary workout videos to MTV-inspired dance classes in the ‘90s, dance workouts have always been a go-to for those who want to stay active while having fun. Today’s dance fitness trends draw heavily from the foundation of those retro workouts.

Popular modern dance fitness programs like Zumba and Cardio Dance owe their success to these concepts. By merging great music, high-energy vibes, and calorie-torching routines, they keep people coming back week after week.

Why Retro Fitness Trends Thrive in Modern Times 

You might wonder, what’s sparking this major resurgence in retro fitness trends? Here’s why these vintage workouts still resonate:

Nostalgia

There’s an undeniable comfort in revisiting the past. Retro workouts remind us of simpler times, offering a feel-good factor that modern routines sometimes lack.

Fun Factor

Workouts rooted in music and rhythm simply feel more enjoyable. Jazzercise, dance aerobics, and even roller skating prove you can get fit and have a great time doing it.

Community Atmosphere

Retro workouts were social experiences long before boutique studios marketed the idea of “fit family.” People flock to these activities to reconnect with others in a laid-back environment.

Accessibility

Many of these fitness trends are approachable for all fitness levels. You don’t need fancy equipment or prior experience to jump into a step aerobics or Jazzercise class.

Social Media Influence

There’s no denying it -- social platforms have been instrumental in reviving retro fitness. Videos of roller skating tricks or fun Jazzercise routines inspire thousands daily to give these workouts a try.

How to Get Started With Retro Fitness 

If this list has you eager to lace up your roller skates or dust off your step bench, here’s how you can get started:

Jazzercise classes are available in many cities, as well as online for on-demand workouts. All you need are sneakers and a willingness to groove. Step aerobics only requires a step platform, which you can find at most sporting goods stores. YouTube is packed with beginner-friendly step routines to follow. Roller skating videos and tutorials on apps like TikTok can show you the basics and inspire tricks. Dance workouts are plentiful online, with many free resources and apps offering everything from retro routines to Zumba-inspired fun.

Fitness doesn’t have to be boring, and retro trends remind us of the joy movement can bring. Whether you’re grooving to a Jazzercise beat, skating your way to better health, or stepping it out with an aerobics routine, these throwback workouts make fitness accessible, exciting, and feel-good. A commitment to health doesn’t have to mean reinventing the wheel (or the roller skate) every time. Lean into the nostalgia, have some fun, and discover how timeless these workouts really are. Now’s your chance to turn back the clock and get moving with a retro-inspired workout. Will it be Jazzercise, roller skating, or step aerobics for you? Share your pick in the comments below—we’d love to hear how you’re keeping fitness fun!