In the 1970s and 1980s, fitness culture became worldwide mainstream, fueled by a growing interest in health, and also the rise of home entertainment. Being fit was no longer only for athletes or gym rats, it became a vibrant part of everyday life. Bringing not only fitness to the front pages, but also the style, music and equipment that made it iconic and fun.
The colorful workout gear, energetic group classes, and TV programs made exercise accessible to millions and it made it in a way so you didn’t even have to leave your living room. Trends went from cardio to strength and even sculpt focused, but together they reshaped how people approached staying active.
At the end of the day these trends paved the way and created a legacy that still influences modern fitness culture today.
1
ThighMaster
Suzanne Somers’ iconic device targeted inner thighs and became a widely known symbol of fitness.
2
Richard Simmons’ “Sweatin’ to the Oldies”
Richard Simmons made exercise fun and welcoming for everyone, using dance moves to classic hits.
3
Soloflex
Promoted the use of "weight straps" instead of weights, for a quieter and safer at home workout.
4
Bodybuilding
Popularized by Arnold Schwarzenegger, bodybuilding moved from niche groups to mainstream culture.
5
Created by martial artist Billy Blanks. Although its boom was in the early 90s, it already existed before. Blending taekwondo, boxing, and dance into one fast-paced workout.
6
Aerobics craze
Led by Jane Fonda’s workout videos, aerobics dominated the fitness scene.
7
Step aerobics
Created by Gin Miller in the late ’80s, step aerobics combined dance moves with a raised platform. A workout that spread quickly worlwide.
8
Callanetics
Developed by Callan Pinckney. It consisted of a series of tiny, controlled movements designed to tighten and tone muscles without high impact. Still super famous today.
9
Jazzercise
Created by Judi Sheppard Missett, blended jazz dance and strength training and it became popular quickly.
10
20 minute workout
A cult favorite during the aerobic craze. A performance of dance-inspired aerobic routines to pop music, for you to do from home.
11
DP Body Tone 500
Marketed as an all-in-one home fitness solution, you could work every muscle in these.
