Denise Austin has been a fitness icon for 40 years, known for her fun approach to exercise. She was a pioneer of the ’80s aerobics craze and remains a leading expert on fitness trends and enduring workouts. At 65, she is still active and has recently released a 30-minute free workout on her YouTube channel.
Denise Austin Reflected on Change
Denise Austin’s latest workout video is inspired by her classic ’80s workouts. In an interview, Austin said it felt like she was filming a VHS tape again, as she incorporated many of the same moves. Austin also explained the popularity of retro workouts and mentioned that her daughter is now joining the fitness industry.
Denise Austin was thrilled about the resurgence of 1980s workouts and the rediscovery of them by younger generations. She associates the decade with playful fashions, poppy music, and happy memories from the start of her fitness career. Austin believes that incorporating more fun into fitness is important, especially in the current climate, and noted that the 1980s were characterized by smiles and positivity in the fitness world.
Working Out Has Come Far
Working out has evolved since the 1980s when Austin first entered the fitness industry. She pointed out how today, women often wear Lululemon leggings and listen to their own music at the gym, whereas in the early 1980s, aerobics was just becoming popular, and leg warmers and upbeat music were more common. Despite the changes, Austin notes that the fundamental desire to have fun and feel good through exercise has remained constant throughout her career. People still want to enjoy fitness but not push themselves too hard.
Austin highlighted the increased importance of exercise in today’s tech-dominated society. She suggested that movement can benefit mental health and encouraged people to take breaks from phones and social media to enjoy life. Austin also believes that the nostalgic aspect of retro workouts can provide a welcome distraction from technology and social media.
Denise Austin’s Favorite Exercise
As an experienced fitness instructor, Denise Austin has tried a wide range of exercises, but her favorite targets the abs. She particularly enjoys moves that involve twists, like the dance-like twist that appears in her early 1980s videos. On the other hand, Austin is not a fan of burpees, which are challenging push-ups and leap hybrids.
Austin is an advocate for the idea that exercise can be incorporated into any lifestyle at any age. She encourages people to never feel too old to start exercising and suggests that even simple activities like walking can have a positive impact on muscle health. Austin also promoted a more positive perspective on aging and encourages people to embrace movement and activity as a way to stay healthy and vital.