By: Grace Avery
As a former gym and Barry’s devotee, I was nervous that all my fitness routine while self isolating would be lost, and I know I’m not alone. Yes we’re on lockdown, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be creative with the ways in which we stay active and move our bodies. And thanks to some of the greatest workout videos from the 80s and 90s, maintaining your workout regimen while stuck at home is most definitely an option. These are the five best, tried and tested vintage workouts on Youtube.
Working out with Cindy Crawford is a joy. Not only do you feel like her friend, joining in with the moans and groans of a hard workout, but you feel strong, powerful and who wouldn’t wanna workout with the most iconic supermodel of all time? The hour long total body workout consists of cardio, strength and toning segments, has plenty of variety that won’t make you bored and if you really commit, will definitely challenge you. Bonus points for the 90’s soundtrack and MTV editing style.
Another workout, another supermodel, this time led by MacPherson’s trainer, Karen Voight. This is an interval-style workout switching between aerobics and toning/sculpting moves. Each segment, the girls find themselves in different locations throughout Hawaii— the perfect backdrop to motivate you to work on your summer bod. The aerobic segment isn’t confusing (even for the most uncoordinated) it just requires a bit of focus. It isn’t a particularly difficult workout, but an enjoyable hour moving your body to INXS and coveting both Elle and Karen’s workout wardrobe.
If you are sick of squatting and lunging, this is the workout for you. 30 minutes of total lower body burn with zero repetitive movements. If that isn’t enough, enjoy the wonderful 80s leotards, synth and saxophone heavy instrumentals and geometric set. But the most important feature is Denise Austin— undoubtedly the most motivating trainer on Youtube. Hardly a minute goes by without her telling you how fabulous you look. If you are finding it too easy, add some ankle weights to make it more challenging.
This video opens up with scenes of Raquel Welch driving a red jeep with a group of girls dressed in tennis whites and visors, running on the beach, living life on a yacht and frolocking around in the ocean. The workout takes place in a beautifully designed cream, marble room adorned with tropical plants and a cast outfitted in a colorful array of swimwear. This is a bikram yoga sequence and at around 80 minutes long, you will definitely feel the burn, especially if you aren’t a seasoned yogi.
Saving the best until last, the OG queen of fitness videos, Jane Fonda. The New Workout is a total body workout with aerobic and toning segments. There are two options— a 35 minute session for beginners or a 55 minute session for those who are more advanced. Unlike some of her other workouts, the aerobic section isn’t too dance based, perfect for those who aren’t extremely coordinated. This is the most fun of the five workouts with lots of clapping, cheering on from the class and big smiles.
