Jane Fonda's Workout

1982 VHS release in Australia

1982 RCA SelectaVision

Jane Fonda's Workout is a fitness exercise program and accompanying series of aerobics videos led by American actress, activist, and fitness guru Jane Fonda. Released in 1982, Jane Fonda's Workout became the highest-selling VHS of all time, selling over 17 million copies globally. It is credited with being the catalyst for the home-video market and the 1980s aerobics craze, significantly impacting the fitness industry.

Background[edit | edit source]

Before releasing her workout series, Jane Fonda was already a well-known actress and political activist. Her entry into the fitness industry was partly due to her own experiences with ballet and aerobics, which she used as methods to maintain her physical health and manage stress. Fonda opened a workout studio in Beverly Hills in 1979, which became highly popular, leading to the idea of creating a video that people could use at home.

Development and Impact[edit | edit source]

The idea for Jane Fonda's Workout stemmed from Fonda's desire to bring her fitness regime to a wider audience and to fund her political activism. The original video combined elements of aerobics, strength training, and stretching, making it accessible for a broad audience, including beginners. Fonda's approach was revolutionary at the time, as it encouraged women, in particular, to view exercise as a regular part of their daily routine.

The success of the initial video led to a series of follow-up workout videos, books, and audio programs, which continued to promote health and fitness to a global audience. Fonda's workout series not only popularized aerobics but also played a significant role in changing perceptions towards women's health and fitness, promoting the idea that fitness was not solely about weight loss but also about overall well-being.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

The legacy of Jane Fonda's Workout extends beyond the realm of fitness; it marked a significant moment in pop culture and the home entertainment industry. Fonda's workout videos were among the first to demonstrate the potential of home video as a medium for instructional content, paving the way for future fitness and instructional videos.

In recent years, Fonda has revisited her role in the fitness world, acknowledging both the positive impacts and the limitations of her earlier work. She has adapted her approach to fitness to be more inclusive and mindful of different body types and abilities, reflecting broader changes in the fitness industry towards inclusivity and holistic health.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Jane Fonda's Workout Resources
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