What are the 80’s known for? Oh man, like a lot of things. Really big hair, snap bracelets, the meaning of ‘be kind, rewind’, weepy after school specials, the Walkman, telephones with crazy long cords, and a whole bunch of other things we’re glad are in the past. But if there’s one thing we’ll never forget about the 80’s, it’s the fitness stars that emerged and blew us away with their routines. The likes of Richard Simmons, Tony Little, Denise Austin, Kathy Smith, and so on are this list. This decade was all about tugging on your colorful leotards, leg warmers, and popping in a VHS to work along to your favorite routine (Jazzercise, duh),with your favorite fitness legend. But let’s be real, that kind of get-up doesn’t exist now. I mean, who many of us actually even still have a VHS recorder? Didn’t think so. Better yet, if you do have one, do you still even use it? Ahh, now that’s the question. It’s all about YouTube and our favorite digital dinosaurs are probably somewhere on the web presenting their biggest hits. Times have changed now, people are all about quick results, and no one has time to sweat to the oldies. Crash dieting, juice cleanses, surgery (liposuction and gastric bypass, anyone?), and anything else that offers a quick solution – now these are trends of the 21st century in the exercise world. And with the growing trends, people only watch a 20 second clip that’ll make them laugh instead of follow along to a 40 minute workout video.
However there are a few committed fitness junkies who swear by Pilates, yoga, and cycling to get their exercise kick. These are the kinds of people who view their body as a temple and don’t care about recent trends; they care about maintaining their figure and being at their best. These are the kind of people most of us want to punch in the face, but only because we’re so darn jealous. For old times’ sake, let’s rewind and discover what our favorite fitness fanatics who are still kicking it – aerobics-style, of course – are up to today. How many of them are still fitness stars and how many have gone on to achieve even bigger and better things? You might just be surprised by the answer.
Jane Fonda
Don’t tell me that you forgot Jane Fonda is also a fitness guru? Fonda is not just an actress or a writer or a political activist – she is a walking Wonder Woman. Before the 80’s even came ’round, Fonda had established herself as a powerhouse on the big screen. So when her first ever exercise video was released in 1982, Jane Fonda’s Workout, no one was surprised that it went on to become the highest-selling video of that time.
This was the first of 22 workout videos to come over a 13 year span – all of which collectively sold more than 17 million copies. Fonda is still acting to this day while fighting the good fight for various charitable causes and political arenas.
Jake Steinfeld
59 year old Jake Steinfeld is the fitness specialist and fitness trainer everyone wanted a piece of, and still do. In the 80’s, Steinfeld developed brands and businesses as the Chairman and CEO of ‘Body by Jake’. Moreover, he is also the founder of FitOrbit, a fitness and weight loss program.
After selling FitTV, Steinfeld launched a fitness on-demand TV network, ExerciseTV. Oh, as a personal trainer, he even worked with high-end clients like Steven Spielberg and Harrison Ford (whom he actually trained for the Indiana Jones films.) And yes, to this day, he is still a fitness expert.
Greg Smithey
No doubt you’re familiar with Greg Smithey, the fitness and aerobics instructor. No? The name doesn’t ring a bell?
Well you’re probably far more familiar with this workout video, The Original Buns of Steel, which was released in 1987. More than a million VHS copies were sold, however he has most recently relaunched the workout video.
Alyssa Milano
Ahem, Alyssa Milano is the kind of star that really requires no introduction. Milano came out swinging in 1984 and has yet to cease (thank goodness). While most of us know her best from her roles in Who’s the Boss?, Melrose Place, Charmed, My Name is Earl, Project Runway: All Stars, Mistresses, and Wet Hot American Summer: 10 Years Later, she is also an activist, producer, and singer.
As a literal “Jack of all trades”, Milano even produced her own teen workout video, Teen Steam, when she was 16 years old.
Olivia Newton-John
Everybody, it’s time to get physical. “Physical” was released in 1981 and became Newton-John’s most successful studio album. However the song’s lyrics were deemed too provocative so Olivia went ahead and filmed an exercise-themed music video – all of which powered the 80’s fitness craze of spandex, leg warmers, and headbands.
Ahh, what a time. Now the English-Australian star is a four-time Grammy winner, who outside of acting and singing, is also an entrepreneur and activist,
Cher
What more could we tell you about Cher that you don’t already know? This Goddess of Pop has been dominating the music and film scene since 1963 and she’s still going strong.
Cher also expanded her fame when releasing the exercise book Forever Fit, which she then followed up with two fitness videos, CherFitness: A New Attitude and CherFitness: Body Confidence. At 71, Cher has earned numerous accolades and is a respected social activist.
Heather Locklear
We couldn’t talk about the 80’s without mentioning Heather Locklear. With roles in Dynasty, T. J. Hooker, Firestarter, and Melrose Place, Locklear’s face was everywhere.
With her ‘Personal Training Sessions’, Locklear fans had the opportunity to be as fit as her, all while rocking a leotard.
John Travolta
Granted, John Travolta is currently in hot waters but he is still a legend. With works in Saturday Night Fever, Grease, Pulp Fiction, and more, Travolta has a string of awards on his shelf.
In 1985, Travolta starred alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in the notoriously bad flick Perfect where Travolta uncovers the tale of how “Fitness clubs are the singles bars of the ’80s”.
Fabio Lanzoni
Of course the Italian-American actor, fashion model, and spokesman Fabio Lanzoni makes the cut.
However Fabio didn’t just grace the covers of romance novels throughout the 80’s and 90’s, he was also the cover of many fitness magazines too. I mean, just look at his physique!
Raquel Welch
Undoubtedly Raquel Welch is an icon from the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s – known for her unique persona, strong female leads, and the shedding the status of a “sex symbol”, Welch was loved and admired by all. So when she released her own line of fitness books and videos in the 80’s, people were buying whatever she was selling. In 1984 she released her first set of books and videos, The Raquel Welch Total Beauty and Fitness Program.
Welch’s book includes a hatha yoga fitness program along with her personal views on healthy living and nutrition – the book also included a section on beauty and personal style. Before you ask, Welch is still making television and film appearances.
Suzanne Somers
While we easily recognize Suzanne Somers as Chrissy Snow from Three’s Company and Carol Foster Lambert from Step by Step, she is so much more.
Throughout the 80’s, Somers was the spokesperson for Thighmaster and appeared in many infomercials for them. The 71 year old is also the author of many best-selling self-help books, including four diet books.
Arnold Schwarzenegger
Arnie is one of ~the~ most important figures in bodybuilding history. Even after hanging up his weights, Schwarzenegger became the owner of various gyms and fitness magazines.
For a while Mr. Olympia was even a writer for Muscle & Fitness and Flex. As you should know, “The Governator” is a Hollywood action film icon and the former Governor of California. After his political career ended in 2011, Arnie returned to the big screen.
Judi Sheppard Missett
Guys, you are looking at the founder and CEO of Jazzercise! Judi founded Jazzercise back in 1969 and is still the CEO to world’s leading dance fitness program!
Heck, it has more than 8,300 franchisees in 32 countries.
Tamilee Webb
Next up is the fitness guru Tamilee Webb, yes the same Tamille Webb who is known for her Buns of Steel and Abs of Steel videos in the 80’s and 90’s.
With a master’s degree in exercise science and as the CEO of Webb International, Webb has made quite the name for herself. Recently she released a collections video for buns, abs, and arms.
Jack LaLanne
Known as the “Godfather of Fitness” and the “First Fitness Superhero”, Jack LaLanne inspired millions to live a healthier life.
For 34 years, Jack was the host for various fitness and exercise advice channels. Apart from his television presence, this fitness superhero released many books and was a motivational speaker until he passed away in 2011.
Richard Simmons
Eccentric, flamboyant, and energetic are a few words we can use to describe the weight loss program King, Richard Simmons. Known for his line of aerobics videos, Sweatin’ to the Oldies, Simmons has released a number of books, videos, cassettes, DVDs, and so on.
However since 2014, Simmons has not made any major public appearances and seems to be enjoying life at home.
Mr. T
Complete with his gold jewelry, tough guy persona, and African Mandinka warrior hairstyle, Lawrence Tureaud AKA Mr. T has been a fitness star since the 80’s.
“I Pity the Fool” who came up against him back when he was a professional wrestler with the WWF. Recently Mr. T was a contestant on Dancing with the Stars.
Cathy Lee Crosby
Former professional tennis player Cathy Lee Crosby was an advocate for healthy living throughout her sports career.
Even more so once she became a Hollywood actress, you probably recognize her as Wonder Woman. Cosby last film role was in 2011 in Ablaze alongside Ice-T and Tom Arnold.
Jamie Lee Curtis
After starring alongside John Travola in Perfect, Jamie Lee Curtis received a ton of attention from the athletic community.
While the movie was largely a flop, Curtis’ career only continued to gain popularity. The 59 year old is a massive supporter of humanitarian and political causes. Moreover she is a blogger for The Huffington Post.
Tonya Harding
With the release of the film I, Tonya, the former figure skater and boxer Tonya Harding is back in the limelight.
Despite being a two-time Olympian and also a two-time Skate America Champion, Harding is best remembered for the attack on Nancy Kerrigan, a fellow skater.
Nancy Kerrigan
Speaking of Nancy Kerrigan, she won bronze at the 1991 World Championships and silver at the 1992 Winter Olympics before she become the 1993 US National Champion.
Even after the brutal attack, she still won silver at the 1994 Winter Olympics! All this while being a fitness advocate and performing in ice shows like Champions on Ice and Broadway on Ice. Recently she was a contestant on Dancing with the Stars.
Chris Evert Lloyd
That’s right, we’re talking about Chris Evert Lloyd, the 18 Grand Slam singles champion!
When it comes to tennis, many consider Lloyd to be the greatest female tennis athlete, which is quite the achievement. Lloyd has own tennis academy in Boca Raton, Florida and is a contributor for Tennis magazine.
Charlene Prickett
Meet everyone’s favorite fitness star from the 80’s! Charlene Prickett is known for her weight loss program videos like Return to Slender:
A Step Aerobics and Muscle Toning Workout for Postnatal and Overweight Women, No Jump Aerobics, and Cruising Altitude: 1 Hour Vigorous Low Impact Aerobics.
Susan Powter
If there’s one thing anyone remembers about Susan Powter, apart from her athleticism, it’s her catchphrase “Stop the Insanity!”
Powter is a well known motivational speaker, nutritionist, personal trainer, and is also an author (print and her own blog).
Cynthia Kereluk
Next up is the Canadian fitness and exercise guru, Cynthia Kereluk.
The former Miss Canada and contestant in Miss Universe 1984 had many fitness shows running in both America and Canada. Furthermore her fitness workshops and phone consultations were a huge hit.
Kathy Smith
Thanks to her workout videos in the 80’s and 90’s, Kathy Smith became a household name. Since she first got started, Smith has sold more than 16 million copies of her fitness videos.
Moreover her exercise and nutrition program, Project:You! Type 2, was only created with the American Diabetes Association as way to help manage Type 2 diabetes.
Lou Ferrigno
At 66 years old, Lou Ferrigno AKA The Hulk, will always be our favorite actor, fitness trainer, fitness consultant, and retired professional bodybuilder.
Ferrigno is an advocate for leading a healthy lifestyle, especially when it comes to exercise and diet. Which makes sense, I mean just look at those muscles!
Gilad Janklowicz
No way this list was not going to include Gilad Janklowicz, he’s a fitness personality!
Gilad is known for his long running fitness show “Bodies in Motion” and “Total Body Sculpt with Gilad.” The Israeli has released more than 30 workout videos!
June Jones
As the co-founder of Aerobics Oz Style, June Jones was massively popular in Australia. From the show’s first air date in 1982, it ran through 2005, that’s 4,500 episodes in total. Crazy. All of the show’s instructors also were of all ages and both genders, so there was something for everyone.
Nowadays, Jones still keeps fit however she isn’t on TV much as she’s more focused on family life. With that being said, in October 2017 she teamed up with some of her former Aerobics Oz Style instructors for a reunion show – everyone dressed up like it was 80’s again!
Billy Blanks
In the late 80’s, Billy Blanks made a name for himself with Tae Bo – workout program which combined of Taekwando and boxing. First he opened a fitness gym in LA however by the end, his clients were some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, like Paula Abdul.
As his gym became more popular, so did his workout videos – Blanks was a household name. Currently he makes YouTube workout videos and has had a few cameos in film and TV.
Bess Motta
There wasn’t much this Canadian couldn’t do – she sings, acts, dances, and exercises like a darn Queen. Motta’s TV program, The 20 Minute Workout, only ran for a year despite the fact that it brought in thousands of viewers weekly. At this point though, Motta was well known by all.
Once The 20 Minute Workout went off air, Motta became an actress and appeared in The Terminator and The Home Show. Nowadays, she’s leading a more quiet life but we hope to hear from her soon!
Arlaine Wright
Speaking of The 20 Minute Workout, Arlaine Wright’s background in ballet, cheerleading, and as an aerobics teacher lander her a slot on the show as an instructor.
Just like Bess Motta, Arlaine became just as popular. So popular that Reebok Canada made her the head of their ‘Aerobic Instructors’ Program. Wright remained at Reebok for many years, however she seems to have disappeared from the public eye.
Demi Moore
While Demi Moore was just starting her career in 1981, she knew one thing was for certain, maintaining her fitness. Not only did Moore pose for magazines (some were even nude or semi-nude), but she was also picking up film roles.
We won’t bore you with a list of all her most famous films otherwise the list would tumble on for many hours. At 55, Moore is looking just as gorgeous as she did when she first started out.
Mary-Ann Wilson
Don’t tell me you don’t remember Mary-Ann Wilson! Her workout program, Sit and Be Fit, was THE best. Wilson is a registered nurse who specializes in geriatrics and post-polio rehabilitation. Her entire fitness regiment was focused on elderly folk and people who have chronic conditions, so sitting in a chair and working out was an effective way to move your body.
While Wilson no longer does the show, her fame is well known. In 2010, Wilson because the national spokeswoman for Prevent DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) coalition. Moreover in 2017 she was even inducted to the National Fitness Hall of Fame!
Derrick Evans
Mr. Motivator, AKA fitness expert Derrick Evans, had a morning show on the British program, GMTV. Although many of us remember him for his bright spandex!
Evans spends most of his days now in Jamaica with his wife and kids and also in England where he appears on fitness programs, morning shows, and reality workout competitions.
Jon Bon Jovi
Undoubtedly, Jon Bon Jovi is the King of 80’s music – in fact, he’ll remain the King for centuries to come. Unlike most rock stars, Jovi always treats his body like a temple. He lifts weights, goes on the elliptical and treadmill, but he’s always moving.
Even at 55, Jovi is an avid fitness nerd. Especially when touring, he’s out in nature either running, walking, or doing yoga.
Brooke Shields
As far as supermodels go, Brooke Shields has always been fit and wonderful in every sense of the word. However after having two kids, Shields let herself go a bit.
Although, she’s back at it now. Saying to Healthy Living magazine, “Truly, when I get enough sleep and drink enough water. I don’t think there’s a trick to being healthy; I think we all know what our limitations are.”
Neil Patrick Harris
Doogie Howser, M.D. at your service, folks. While Neil Patrick Harris spent a lot of time in front of the camera, he’s also a musical stage legend, magician, and comedian.
Over the past few years, especially since having twins, Harris spends a lot of time eating healthy and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Diana Moran
English model, fitness expert, and journalist Diana Moran, AKA The Green Goddess, was incredibly popular from 1983 to 1987. During those years, Moran hosted the very popular exercise segment of the BBC1 Breakfast Time program. Her trademark though?
A green leotard. She also published a ton of successful fitness books. Currently she is a huge advocate for breast cancer awareness and research fund.
Lizzie Webb
“Mad Lizzie” was known for her energetic attitude during her workout routines. Then again, that was also her nickname as she would often sport wild hair and worked out in her PJ’s!
Moreover she was also a rival for The Green Goddess, as Mad Lizzie also appeared on Good Morning Britain when Diana Moran’s Green Goddess was on air. Currently she keeps to herself as not much has been heard of her recently.
Mayim Bialik
Actress and neuroscientist – not your usual combo but Mayim Bialik makes it work.
Known best as Dr. Amy Farrah Fowler on the hit TV series The Big Bang Theory, Bialik is also a huge feminist. She believes that while living a healthy lifestyle is important, she applauds and encourages everyone loving their bodies as they are. Perfection means nothing.
Rob Lowe
“I’m an adrenaline junkie!” That’s pretty much been Rob Lowe’s mantra for years now. During the 80’s, he was a serious heartthrob who lead a huge party life. However now, he doesn’t drink nor does he smoke.
While talking to Conan O’Brian in 2015, he said, “Like I said, I don’t drink or do any of the crazy things I used to do when I was wild and young, so I try to do things to let the wild man out. So skiing, surfing – adrenaline stuff.”
Sharon Bruneau
Now Sharon Bruneau first started her career as a fashion model however after catching pneumonia, she lost a ton of weight and was forced to quit. Once she recovered, Bruneau began to strengthen her body with weights and not long after, she competed in fitness competitions. Later, she appeared on covers of Muscle & Fitness and Flex, and was signed by Weider Health and Fitness publications decided she would be their first ever female representative from 1991 to 1998. After competing at the 1994 Ms.
Olympia contest, Sharon chose to switch up to fitness competitions but retired in 1995. After this, she took on some film and TV roles. However currently she works as a motivational speaker, she talks about fitness and health and the impact it had on her life.
Andrew McCarthy
As far as the 80’s are concerned, Andrew McCarthy was a huge star.
Thanks to his roles in St. Elmo’s Fire, Pretty in Pink, and Less Than Zero, but you knew that already. Currently, apart from acting, he also works as a travel writer.
Diane Lane
With numerous Oscar and Golden Globe nominations and some of Hollywood’s steamiest sex scenes, Diane Lane is nothing short of amazing.
When speaking with Glamour about anti-aging secrets, Lane said, “It’s become sleep. It used to be other things, but sleep is the great equalizer.” Lane also eats in moderation and does yoga.
Anthony Michael Hall
A member of Hollywood’s Brat Pack, Anthony Michael Hall has starred in some of the greatest classic films.
Such as Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Weird Science. However Hall had a bit of a drinking problem which greatly affected not only his career but his health. Since getting sober, Hall has made healthy strides in his fitness.
Tom Cruise
So how has Tom Cruise stayed in such good shape over the years? “Sea-kayaking, caving… fencing, treadmill, weights… rock-climbing, hiking… I jog…
I do so many different activities.” I mean, easy enough…
Tracy Austin
Tennis star Tracy Austin won three Grand Slam titles, which includes the 1979 and 1981 women’s singles titles. Moreover she held the title of THE youngest US Open female singles champion in history since the year 1979, and she is also the youngest inductee of all time to the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
After a series of terrible injuries and a serious car crash, Austin retired in 1994. Since then she has been a commentator for NBC and the USA Network for both the French Open and the US Open.
Tony Little
“America’s Personal Trainer” is known for his booming-voice and long blonde ponytail – at 61, Tony Little has accomplished a lot as a fitness trainer. As a former Mr. Florida and Mr. Junior America, in 183 Little suffered a huge blow after a devastating car accident caused many physical injuries.
However during recovery, Little developed exercise programs and released his book One on One with Tony Little: The Complete 28-Day Body Sculpting And Weight Loss Program. His fitness videos even went on win 14 Platinum Awards! Little has made plenty of TV appearances and is often the target of parody skits.
Denise Austin
Oh man, of course Denise Austin makes the list! As far as fitness instructors go, Austin is a favorite. Apart from fitness, Austin is also an author, columnist, and is even a former member of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports.
Austin is respected for her natural weight loss courses and tips as she believes that the healthy route is the only way to go. You can watch reruns of her fitness show on ESPN Classic, Getting Fit with Denise Austin.
Cindy Crawford
It has always been hard to take our eyes off Cindy Crawford, and that hasn’t changed now that she is 52 years old.
She gave so many women hope and inspiration, and she also gave women tools to getting a healthier body. Some of those routines were: Shape Your Body and The Next Challenge Workout.
Sylvester Stallone
Who can forget Rocky Balboa? Or perhaps he was Rambo to you. Either way, he was (and actually still is) a super-ripped stud who could tear any shirt with a single flex.
He’s 71 years old now and we can all learn a thing or two about getting fit from his strict exercise routine.
Joanie Greggains
Did anyone else watch Morning Stretch with Joanie Greggains?
It’s also possible that you listened to her fitness program on KSRO Radio called, The Joanie Greggains Show. Since her first exercise routine videos were released, she has sold more than 10 million copies.
Chuck Norris
Chuck Norris and Total Gym are somewhat synonymous, but maybe it shouldn’t be.
The invincible Walker Texas Ranger is a martial arts expert and he’s also pasted his face on some very questionable fitness infomercials… some of which included his wife.
Pamela Anderson
Working out on the beach before rescuing a drowning swimmer is only part of what we remember CJ/Pamela Anderson for.
She has recently exposed that she doesn’t do all that much exercise, but we’re all pretty skeptical about that.
Jean Claude Van Damme
He’s got an accent that can stand next to Schwarzenegger’s, and a body that we can’t keep our eyes off.
The 57-year-old Belgian actor and martial artist turned every young boy (and man) into a fitness-chasing lunatic, especially from his movies, Kickboxer(1989), Bloodsport(1988), and No Retreat, No Surrender(1986).
Yasmine Bleeth
Baywatch beauty, Yasmine Bleeth, doesn’t conform to the typical celebrity “weight-watcher” ideals.
Not to say that she doesn’t care about her weight, but in her own words, “I’m the kind of person who waits until I’ve gained ten pounds to start exercising.” Either way, seeing her is like taking a time machine into the past!
David Hasselhoff
Hasselhoff is loved in Germany probably more than he is in America, but that’s not what we’re here to discuss. The Knight Rider star exudes the 1980’s, but luckily for us he doesn’t wear the same apparel as he did, to work out.
He is crazy about working out, and even said, “If I don’t work out, I feel anxious. I absolutely love my workout time. It’s a time where I can decompress and not get stressed out about anything.”
Nadia Comaneci
When it comes to a story of winning, losing, failing hope and then rediscovering it, Nadia Comaneci’s story is all that.
The 80’s athlete became the first ever Olympic gymnast to get a ‘perfect 10’ score. And then she went on to get over and over again, breaking numerous world records all at once.
Hulk Hogan
What do you mean you “want the DVD?” We’re talking about Hulk Hogan in 1985! What you can get, is his audio cassette where you can listen to Hogan shouting out some incessant and sort of condescending workout instructions, helping you get bigger and stronger, one command at a time.
Oh, and there is some wonderful synthetic music to ease you into it.
Rosemary Conley
Conley was all about nutrition and low-fat diets, but not without throwing in some really important exercises.
She wasn’t messing around when she launched her hip and thigh workout and diet in 1984. Today she is serving as president of the Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Clubs.
Tony Horton
Have you ever heard of P90x? Well, if you haven’t then I both recommend and don’t recommend you check it out. Tony Horton has created a series of workouts that you can do in the comfort of your own home.
This 59-year-old has written four books about fitness and health, and has released numerous fitness videos that can change the way you work out.
Carmen Electra
Carmen Electra… hmmm. She knows a thing or two about keeping in shape and she even made a couple of videos about it.
Her take has been somewhat different from other fitness instructors of the 1980’s. Electra created a routine called Aerobic Striptease as a means of getting fitter and sexier.
Beverley Callard
Are you looking for Rapid Results? This woman is the person who is going to get it to you.
60-year-old Beverley Callard, acted in Coronation Street and a number of other British TV shows. But she will be remembered best for her roles in fitness tapes like Rapid Results, Real Results and Ultimate Results.
Mary Lou Retton
Mary Lou Retton quickly became America’s sweetheart at the Olympic Games. But she didn’t just melt hearts through her own gymnastics.
She made America smile and well up with happy tears when she instructed children in the cutest fitness video ever in 1985. Fun Fit was a perfect workout for kids, and Retton was the perfect instructor.
Alexandra Paul
Is it surprising to see another Baywatch actress on this list? We didn’t think so either.
Alexandra Paul didn’t stop working out after leaving the set (shall we say ‘beach’?) of Baywatch. Today she still continues to work out whenever she can, and she makes sure that she can.