I first discovered aerobics when I got my hands on a Jane Fonda workout record at around 13 or 14. I was completely captivated by Jane, her stylish tights, and those iconic legwarmers. I couldn’t quite grasp why my babysitter’s mom had such strong negative feelings towards her—my mom mentioned something about Vietnam, but that was lost on me at the time.
I would blast that record in my cozy mauve room, complete with Laura Ashley wallpaper and plush carpeting. I jumped around in front of my goldfish, Max and Ruby, who, I swear, seemed to wiggle along with the beat. Poor fish—they didn’t survive long after I left for college; my family completely forgot about them.
Eventually, I moved on to a local aerobics studio called “Fit with Suzy,” just a short walk away. I had the leotard, oh yes! My mom took me to Shillito’s in Cincinnati, where I snagged a purple one. I paired that with Reebok high-tops, shiny soccer shorts, blue eyeliner, and Revlon’s Silver City Pink lipstick.
My love for aerobics lasted for years. I was never the sporty type—swimming was my only strong suit, but competing? No way! Aerobics made me feel athletic. In college, I planned my classes around the IU Fit program at the student center. During the summer, my parents didn’t quite understand my frustration at missing aerobics because they wanted me to work. My brother and I shared a car, and he worked later than I did, forcing me to wait and miss class. Sometimes, I’d even persuade a coworker to drive me home, which was 15 minutes out of his way, just to make it to my workout.
Then, somewhere in my late 20s or early 30s, life got serious, and I drifted away from aerobics. The purple leotard faded into memory, just like Jane and my fish. I found myself dealing with divorce and trying to rebuild my life.
This summer, a friend convinced me to join her for a Jazzercise class. Walking into the studio felt like stepping back in time. The setup, the upbeat instructor, and the mostly female crowd brought back memories. The music was pumping, and the instructor was all about motivation.
But I was different now.
There’s a bit more weight on me these days; my foot has a pinched nerve, and my knees ache. I’m definitely not squeezing into a leotard anymore. After having twins at 40, my wardrobe consists of old yoga pants and a T-shirt from a family reunion that says “Proud to Be Italian!” (Seriously, no one ever believes I’m Italian).
Yet there’s something magical about reconnecting with a first love. In class, I feel like I’m home. Sure, I might not look my best while Jazzercising, but I feel amazing. I still have the moves! I’m more relaxed about attending; I just appreciate the time I can carve out from family and work. When I can’t make it, I bust out my moves in the kitchen—my family is so lucky!
Aerobics and I are officially back together. I ditched the gym I never went to and picked up a Jazzercise pass. I’m even considering treating myself to some new workout gear—maybe even a fresh pair of blue eyeliner!
Oh, and I heard Jane has just released her workout video on DVD again. I definitely need to check that out!
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Summary: This piece reflects on a lifelong love for aerobics, tracing back to the early days of Jane Fonda’s influence. Despite life changes and challenges, the joy of movement and the nostalgia of past experiences have reignited a passion for fitness.