Here’s What Your Favorite 1980s Fitness Icons Are Doing Today

The 1980s were a golden era for fitness lovers. People everywhere were wearing thigh-high leotards, neon leg warmers, and oversized sweatbands. It wasn’t just about fashion—it was a fitness revolution. The most popular workout trend? High-energy aerobics dance exercise, designed to help people burn fat, boost energy, and stay in shape.

Back then, getting fit was super easy. You didn’t need a gym membership. All you needed was a VHS player, a workout tape, and some space in your living room. These home workout programs became a huge part of pop culture.

But who were the most famous celebrity fitness trainers of the 1980s? And what are they doing now? From aerobics for weight loss to online fitness coaching today, many of them have transformed how we exercise at home.

Keep reading to discover the icons who inspired a generation—and how their legacy still influences the best exercises for beginners today.

Jane Fonda – Then

When you hear the name Jane Fonda, you probably picture bright leotards and tights. That’s because she became a global icon thanks to her famous celebrity workout videos in the 1980s.

Her first video, “Jane Fonda’s Workout”, became the best-selling VHS of all time. Over the years, she released 22 fitness videos that sold more than 17 million copies. Fonda helped make home fitness programs for women popular at a time when gyms were mostly for men.

Before becoming a fitness legend, Fonda started as a Hollywood actress. She made her debut on Broadway in 1960 and starred in movies like Tall Story. She earned seven Academy Award nominations, won two Oscars for Best Actress, and a Primetime Emmy Award.

Jane Fonda – Now

Fonda retired from acting in 1991, but came back in 2005 with the hit film Monster-in-Law alongside Jennifer Lopez. She later acted in Georgia Rule and returned to Broadway in 33 Variations. Today, she stars in Netflix’s hit series Grace and Frankie with Lily Tomlin.

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In 2018, HBO released a powerful documentary about her life called Jane Fonda in Five Acts, covering her journey from childhood to becoming a Hollywood icon and fitness pioneer.

Kathy Smith – Then

Kathy Smith became a household name in the fitness world with her fun, energetic workouts. She started as a runner and even attended aerobics classes with Jane Fonda!

Her breakthrough came in 1988 with “Fat Burning Classics”, a low-impact workout featuring three of her best programs: Body Basics, Winning Workout, and Fat Burning Workout. Her weight loss exercise DVDs sold over 16 million copies.

Kathy Smith – Now

Kathy Smith has been leading the fitness and wellness industry for over 30 years. Forbes called her a “Fitness Titan”. She has been inducted into the Video Hall of Fame, written bestselling fitness books, and launched lifestyle and nutrition products.

In an interview with HealthyWomen, she shared her best advice:

“The secret is consistency in your diet and exercise. Surround yourself with people who love hiking, strength training, and healthy cooking.”

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Cher – Then

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Cher rose to fame with Sonny & Cher and her show The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour. Known as the “Goddess of Pop”, Cher also made her mark in fitness with her own workout video series in the ’80s.

Cher – Now

Cher didn’t just stop at music and TV. She became a global solo artist, with hits like “Believe”, the best-selling song by a female artist. Cher has won a Grammy, Emmy, Oscar, Golden Globes, and even honors from the Kennedy Center and CFDA.

Is there anything Cher can’t do?

Jake Steinfeld – Then

Known as “Body by Jake”, Jake Steinfeld became a star with his home workouts. He was a personal fitness trainer for celebrities like Harrison Ford and Steven Spielberg. He helped Ford get in shape for Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.

Jake Steinfeld – Now

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Jake continued to inspire millions through fitness events, TV shows, and books. In 2012, he was honored as an Olympic Torch Bearer in London—showing his global impact in the world of motivational fitness and health.

Heather Locklear – Then

Heather Locklear was one of the most popular actresses of the 1980s. She’s best known for her role as Amanda Woodward on Melrose Place, earning four Golden Globe nominations.

But many people forget she also created a workout video! In 1990, she released Heather Locklear Presents Your Personal Fitness Workout, joining the trend of celebrity fitness routines.

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Heather Locklear – Now

Heather Locklear continues to shine in the spotlight. Twice named one of People Magazine’s “50 Most Beautiful People”, Locklear has starred in popular TV shows like Spin City, Scrubs, Two and a Half Men, Boston Legal, Rules of Engagement, and even the updated version of Melrose Place.

She also appeared in hit films like Uptown Girls and The Perfect Man, proving that she’s more than just a fitness icon—she’s a Hollywood favorite with real staying power.

Olivia Newton-John – Then

Everyone remembers Olivia Newton-John as Sandy in Grease, but few know that her role was changed from American to Australian just for her.

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Her song “Physical” sparked controversy due to its suggestive lyrics, so she turned it into a fun aerobics anthem by creating an exercise video that became a favorite for at-home workouts in the 80s. It became a hit in the home workout for women trend.

Olivia Newton-John – Now

Olivia kept making music, even performing at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Her most recent release was a Christmas album with John Farnham, celebrating joy and positivity through music.

She also returned to TV, guest starring on Glee in a recreation of “Physical” and even appeared as a guest judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, showing her lasting impact on both fitness and pop culture.

Jamie Lee Curtis – Then

Jamie Lee Curtis got her big break as Laurie Strode in the horror classic Halloween. She also starred in Trading Places, A Fish Called Wanda, and Perfect—a film that showcased 80s gym culture and fitness lifestyle.

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Curtis once said,

“I’m an athletic person… I always imagined myself leading a workout class.”
This made her perfect for the role of a fitness instructor in Perfect, a movie that blended romance and aerobics.

Jamie Lee Curtis – Now

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Despite her horror fame, Curtis revealed to NME in 2018:

“I really don’t like horror movies… I don’t enjoy being scared.”

Ironically, she starred in the TV series Scream Queens, a mix of horror and comedy, proving she’s still fearless and versatile. Her journey is a great example of how celebrity fitness and acting careers often go hand in hand.

John Travolta – Then

In Perfect, John Travolta played a journalist who writes about fitness culture and falls in love with a workout instructor, played by Jamie Lee Curtis. The movie captured the spirit of the 80s health and fitness movement and brought even more attention to Hollywood workout routines.

Denise Austin – Then

Denise Austin started her fitness journey as a gymnast at age 12 and earned an athletic scholarship to the University of Arizona. She became a household name for promoting natural weight loss, balanced nutrition, and low-impact workouts.

She always believed in realistic fitness, saying:

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“I work out just 30 minutes a day and I never skip meals.”

This made her a trusted source for women looking for sustainable fitness routines.

Denise Austin – Now

Even at age 63, Denise Austin looks fit and healthy. Her website and social media offer helpful fitness plans, healthy recipes, and anti-aging workout tips for women of all ages.

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She’s also a proud wife and mom. Married since 1983 to sports agent Jeff Austin, they have two daughters—Kelly and Katie—and continue to live a healthy and happy life together.

Fabio Lanzoni – Then

Fabio, the famous Italian-American model and actor, became a pop culture icon in the 1980s and 1990s thanks to his appearances on romance novel covers. But few people know he also entered the world of fitness.

In the early ’90s, he created “Fabio Fitness”, a celebrity workout video and fitness book aimed at helping people get strong and stay healthy at home.

In a 2016 Sports Illustrated interview, Fabio shared his fitness routine:

“I lift weights for over an hour, then do cardio like running or biking. Dirt biking is one of my favorites—it burns 4 to 6 pounds in 4 hours!”

His approach combined strength training, fun outdoor workouts, and a disciplined routine.

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Fabio Lanzoni – Now

In 2016, Fabio proudly became a U.S. citizen. He’s since appeared in music videos, TV shows, and films, continuing his influence in pop culture.

In an interview with Today, he shared his anti-aging secret:

“I never drink alcohol. I’ve never liked it. Staying young is 50% healthy eating and 50% working out. You can’t eat junk and expect the gym to fix it.”

Fabio’s message? A clean lifestyle and consistent fitness plan are key to looking and feeling young.

John Travolta – Now

After Perfect didn’t perform well, it took four years for Travolta to return to the big screen. His comeback happened with Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction”, which completely revived his acting career.

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In 2007, Travolta returned to his musical roots, playing Edna Turnblad in Hairspray. When offered the role, he joked:

“Why me? What makes you think I’d be the perfect woman?”

Travolta continues to entertain across genres, from fitness-inspired films to musicals.

Tony Little – Then

Known for his catchphrase “You can do it!”, Tony Little calls himself “America’s Personal Trainer.”

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After suffering a serious accident, Tony struggled with motivation. But he turned his life around by creating a new total body workout program. He pitched it to the Home Shopping Network, and in just 4 minutes, sold 400 workout videos—launching a legendary career.

Tony Little – Now

Tony’s fitness empire expanded to QVC, where he sold millions of home workout products. After surviving another serious car accident, he used the experience as fuel to keep going.

His life motto:

“Conceive, Believe, and Achieve.”

Today, he continues to motivate people with his energy, resilience, and positive mindset.

Cynthia Kereluk – Then

Before she became a fitness icon, Cynthia Kereluk was crowned Miss Canada and competed in Miss Universe 1984. She transitioned into fitness and starred in the TV series Everyday Workout, which became a hit among fans looking for easy home workouts for beginners.

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She also acted in films like Overnight, Mark of Cain, and The Pink Chiquitas during the 1980s.

Cynthia Kereluk – Now

After her time in the spotlight, Cynthia stepped away from acting and fitness. In 2007, she married Paul Rodgers, the lead singer of Bad Company, who also toured with Queen.

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They had a surprise wedding in British Columbia, and now enjoy a private, peaceful life.

Raquel Welch – Then

Often called “the most beautiful woman in the world,” Raquel Welch was more than a movie star—she was also a health and wellness pioneer.

Her Total Beauty and Fitness program included yoga, exercise routines, and lifestyle advice, making her one of the first celebrities to promote natural fitness and beauty.

She inspired a generation to focus on flexibility, posture, and graceful aging, long before these became wellness trends.

Raquel Welch – Now

After her fitness fame in the 1980s, Raquel Welch returned to her main passion—acting. Over the years, she starred in 69 movies and TV shows, including Seinfeld, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and Legally Blonde.

She even hit the Broadway stage in Victor/Victoria, taking on a role previously played by Julie Andrews and Liza Minnelli.

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In 2017, she was honored as a MAC Cosmetics Beauty Icon, proving that timeless beauty and style can last for decades. Her success is an example of natural aging and self-care, embraced through a healthy lifestyle and confident attitude.

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Suzanne Somers – Then

Most people know Suzanne Somers as Chrissy Snow from the Emmy-winning comedy Three’s Company. But she also became a trailblazer for women’s rights in Hollywood.

In 1980, Somers asked for equal pay with her male co-stars. When the network refused, she completed the season and was eventually replaced—but her stand sparked conversations about pay equity in the entertainment industry.

In 1986, she was crowned Las Vegas’ Female Entertainer of the Year, proving her strength as a solo performer.

Suzanne Somers – Now

In the ’90s, Somers starred in Step By Step, a family sitcom that aired on ABC’s TGIF lineup. When the show ended, she built a powerful brand by launching health and beauty products, including weight loss items, natural skincare, cleaning supplies, and more.

Today, she performs in a live Las Vegas show, Suzanne Sizzles, at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. Her journey shows how stars can rebuild their careers through health, beauty, and empowerment.

Tamilee Webb – Then

Tamilee Webb became famous in the 1990s with her hit workout videos Buns of Steel and Abs of Steel, which sold over $10 million in total. Her programs became part of many at-home fitness routines.

Growing up on a ranch, she dreamed of being a country singer like Shania Twain—but fitness ended up becoming her path to success.

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She was also featured as a fitness expert on FitTV (owned by Discovery) and appeared on ESPN Fitness Pros, helping bring expert advice into people’s homes.

Tamilee Webb – Now

Over the years, Webb received several honors, including:

• Self Magazine’s award for Best Lower Body Workout
• Fitness Instructor of the Year
• Best Exercise Video

In 2008, she was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame, securing her legacy as one of the top fitness trainers for women.

Her advice still resonates with those seeking simple, effective exercise routines for weight loss and toning.

Arnold Schwarzenegger – Then

Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without Arnold Schwarzenegger—bodybuilder, actor, and business mogul.

Arnold started lifting weights at age 15 and went on to win Mr. Universe at 20, and Mr. Olympia a record seven times. He helped popularize weight training and bodybuilding around the world.

Fun fact: his iconic line “I’ll be back” from Terminator was originally written as “I’ll come back.”

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Arnold Schwarzenegger – Now

Even in recent years, Arnold has remained active in Hollywood, starring in Terminator: Dark Fate in 2019. He also hosted The Celebrity Apprentice for one season in 2015, replacing Donald Trump.

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He fired contestants using classic lines like:

“You’re terminated” and “Get to the choppa!”

Arnold continues to share his fitness mindset and motivational lessons, inspiring people to chase success through discipline, strength training, and mental toughness.

Lou Ferrigno – Then

Lou Ferrigno became a legend thanks to his role as The Incredible Hulk in the hit TV series. Before his acting career, Lou was a serious competitor in professional bodybuilding. He won IFBB Mr. America right after high school, and later became Mr. Universe—all before the age of 25.

He trained alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, and their rivalry was featured in the documentary Pumping Iron. Lou was ultimately chosen to play the Hulk over Arnold, partly due to his towering height—6’5″ vs. Arnold’s 6’2″.

Lou Ferrigno – Now

Even decades later, Ferrigno is still benefiting from his Hulk fame. He made a popular guest appearance on The King of Queens, often being the butt of jokes in a fun and lovable way.

Most recently, he returned to TV in a new role on S.W.A.T., proving he’s still a strong presence in the Hollywood action and fitness scene.

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Judi Sheppard Missett – Then

Judi Sheppard Missett started Jazzercise as a young dance teacher who noticed her students cared more about getting fit than learning technical moves. She created a fun way to stay in shape with music and dance—and Jazzercise was born.

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It quickly became a worldwide fitness franchise, helping women everywhere enjoy dance-based workouts at home.

Judi Sheppard Missett – Now

Jazzercise has grown into a global brand with over 8,000 franchises in 32 countries. In a 2019 interview with Inc. Magazine, Judi shared:

“People ask if we’re still doing the same workouts from the ’80s. The answer is yes and no. Yes, we’re still here. No, we keep everything fresh—we send out new music and choreography every 10 weeks.”

That’s what makes Jazzercise one of the longest-running fitness brands in the world.

Tonya Harding – Then

Tonya Harding started skating at age 4 and went all in—leaving school to focus full-time on her training. In 1991, she made history by landing the first triple Axel ever by an American woman in competition.

She won the U.S. Championship and placed second at the World Championships that same year.

But her career took a dramatic turn after the 1994 attack on Nancy Kerrigan, which was linked to Harding’s ex-husband. She was stripped of her title, and her competitive career ended shortly after.

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Tonya Harding – Now

In 2018, Harding appeared on Dancing with the Stars: Season 26 and placed third. It was a chance for her to share a new side of herself and focus on personal growth and healing.

Her story remains one of the most talked-about in Olympic history, and she continues to stay active in the media.

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Nancy Kerrigan – Then

Nancy Kerrigan also started skating early—switching from ice hockey to figure skating at age six. At just nine, she won her first competition: the Boston Open.

Kerrigan would train as early as 4 a.m. before school every day to chase her Olympic dreams.

Her hard work paid off when she placed third in the 1991 U.S. and World Championships, and then earned her spot in the 1992 Winter Olympics, winning the bronze medal.

Nancy Kerrigan – Now

Kerrigan returned to the Olympics in 1994 and won the silver medal, becoming a beloved national figure.

In 2017, she joined Dancing with the Stars: Season 24, proving that she still had the grace and dedication that made her a champion.

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Chris Evert – Then

If you love tennis, you’ve definitely heard of Chris Evert. She’s a retired American tennis champion who once held the title of World No. 1. Evert began playing tennis at age 5, coached by her father, a professional tennis instructor.

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In 1976, she was named Sports Illustrated’s Sportsman of the Year—a rare honor for a tennis player, awarded only a few times in the magazine’s history.

Evert became known for her calm, focused style on the court, helping to inspire a generation of female athletes in tennis.

Chris Evert – Now

Chris Evert retired from professional tennis in 1989 after the U.S. Open, but her record remains legendary. She won:

• 18 Grand Slam titles
• 154 singles titles
• 32 doubles titles

She reached the semifinals in 273 out of 303 tournaments, a level of consistency rarely seen in the sport.

Today, she runs the Evert Tennis Academy in Florida, helps coach high school tennis teams, and works as a sports commentator on ESPN during Grand Slam events. Her passion for tennis continues through her coaching and mentoring of young athletes.

Cathy Lee Crosby – Then

Cathy Lee Crosby started playing tennis at age 12 and quickly rose through the ranks. She ranked #7 in U.S. junior singles and #4 in doubles, often teaming up with her sister, Linda Lou. Crosby even played at Wimbledon twice, one of the most prestigious tournaments in tennis.

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Eventually, she stepped away from tennis to pursue a career in acting and television. She co-hosted the popular show That’s Incredible and also made a guest appearance as a commentator for WWF’s WrestleMania 2, blending sports and entertainment.

Cathy Lee Crosby – Now

Crosby made headlines in the 1980s for her high-profile relationship with NFL star Joe Theismann. After their breakup, she filed a $4.5 million lawsuit claiming he broke a financial support agreement. Theismann countersued, and the case was eventually settled out of court.

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Although she stepped away from the spotlight, Crosby remains a memorable figure in both the sports and entertainment world, representing a rare crossover success from professional athlete to celebrity television personality.