Let's get physical: Retro and fun, aerobics is making a comeback

Dust off the fluoro Lycra and pull up your leg warmers; aerobics is back in a big way.

The ’80s fitness phenomenon is enjoying a big and bright resurgence, with many in lockdown doing the grapevine to feelgood retro tunes at home.

People are also binge-watching dark comedy Physical, starring Aussie Rose Byrne as housewife-turned-aerobics instructor Shelia Rubin, on Apple TV.

Ally Izzo, the owner and founder of Melbourne’s RAD (Retro Aerobics and Dance) Fitness, says the series has inspired new devotees.

“Some of our new participants have found RAD specifically because of Physical, telling me straight up they saw it and got inspired to try some retro aerobics with us,” she says.

“RAD Fitness provides retro music lovers with inclusive, unpretentious and fun dance and fitness classes for all levels. 

“For me, it’s more than a class; it’s about connection, movement, endorphins, nostalgia and an experience that never gets boring. Getting fit is just a happy side-effect.”

Izzo was planning virtual classes to complement the in-studio experience before COVID-19 hit but explains that the pandemic has fast-tracked the process while welcoming regional Victoria, interstate, and overseas participants.

“It’s a great feeling to know we can spread the RAD vibes anywhere with internet coverage but real talk, it has also been lifesaving,” she says.

“I’ve literally had people say that to me and, in all honesty, the classes have also kept my own spirits up and supported my mental health. I’m also grateful I can keep the business running.”

Wendi Carroll was one of the lead instructors on the iconic early-morning television show Aerobics Oz Style from 1990 until the show wrapped in 2005.

The 40-year fitness veteran saw aerobics march back into the spotlight last year when Channel 10 added old episodes to its streaming service during lockdown.

“I love aerobics; it always puts a smile on my face,” she says.

“The fact it’s retro makes it cool, you can have a laugh with it, and you get a workout. The high-energy music makes it fun, you learn a little routine, and it lifts your spirits when you’re stuck at home.”

A former dancer and performer, Annabella Dixon, opened the doors of Mixtape Studio in Thornbury in 2018.

Her timetable is hectic during lockdown with daily classes including ’80s Fit, Step Up, incorporating step aerobics of the 1980s and ’90s, and Discocize.

“It makes people feel good; you’re moving and creating endorphins. Aerobics is cardio dance fitness but easier than a dance class, it’s more basic and you can go for it,” Dixon says.

“Music-wise, we do a lot of themed classes – Madonna, different years, a spring or summer vibe, we did a 1988 special for my birthday.”

NIDA graduate Shannon Dooley founded Retro Sweat in 2011 when traditional exercise wasn’t cutting it and treadmills and jogging were boring.

“I thought if I was going to exercise what would I want it to look like and how would I find motivation, and it was through creativity, colour and dressing up,” she explains.

“I looked to the original group exercise women did, and that was aerobics. It was a movement that was completely driven by women and women’s needs, and I still find that really inspiring.

“Aerobics is so fun, it’s camp, and it brings a smile to people’s faces. The 80s have become cooler over the past few years and are set to become cooler. Ten years ago, people were laughing at me in a high-cut leotard or a mullet wig, but today, that humour is a great talking point and way to make people relax.”

LET’S GET PHYSICAL

Mix Tape Studio

Mixtapestudio.com.au 

@mixtape_studio_melbourne

RAD Fitness

Radfitness.com.au 

@r.a.d.fitness

Retro Sweat

Retrosweathomevideo.com

@retrosweat

Fed Retro Fit

Free online aerobic classes

together.vic.gov.au/fitness-wellbeing