I first dipped my toes into the world of aerobics when I got my hands on Jane Fonda’s exercise record at the tender age of 13 or 14. I was in awe of Jane—her vibrant tights and iconic legwarmers captivated me. I never quite grasped why my babysitter’s mom had such disdain for her; my mother explained it was something related to Vietnam.
In the comfort of my mauve room adorned with Laura Ashley wallpaper, I would crank up the record and bounce around, entertaining my goldfish, Ginger and Fred. I swear they swayed to the rhythm of my movements. Sadly, four years later, when I went to college, they didn’t survive long; my family forgot about their little aquatic companions.
As time went on, I graduated to a local gym called “Suzycise,” which was conveniently within walking distance. Oh, I had the leotard to complete my look! My mom took me to Shillito’s, a Cincinnati department store, where I picked out a purple one. I paired it with Reebok high tops, shiny soccer shorts, bold blue eyeliner, and Revlon’s Silver City Pink lipstick.
My love for aerobics flourished for years. Although I was never particularly athletic—I swam well but was too shy to compete—doing aerobics made me feel empowered. In college, I planned my schedule around IU Fit, the exercise program at the student center. During summer breaks, my parents couldn’t understand my frustration when I missed aerobics sessions because they wanted me to work. Sharing a car with my brother meant a long daily commute, often making me late for class. What an outrage! Sometimes, I even convinced a high school coworker to give me a ride home, even if it meant going slightly out of his way. If I got home in time, I could borrow my mom’s car to make it to class.
However, as I entered my late 20s and early 30s, life got real, and aerobics and I drifted apart. I’m not sure what happened to that purple leotard, but by then, Jane was a distant memory, as were Ginger and Fred. I found myself navigating through divorce and rebuilding my life.
This summer, a friend encouraged me to join her for a Jazzercise class. Walking into the studio felt nostalgic, reminiscent of my younger days. The familiar setup, the energetic instructor, and a room full of women brought back memories. The music was pumping, and the instructor offered uplifting words.
But I was different. There’s a bit more weight on these bones, and my foot’s pinched nerve and achy knees reminded me of my age. There’s no way I’d fit into a leotard now. After having twin babies at 40, my wardrobe consists of old yoga pants and a T-shirt from a family reunion that proudly declares, “Proud to Be Italian!” (Though few believe me!)
There’s something magical about revisiting first loves. In class, I feel a sense of belonging. I might not look graceful while Jazzercising, but the joy I feel is undeniable. I’m less frantic about attendance now; I simply cherish the moments I can carve out from family and work to be there. And on days I can’t make it, you’ll find me dancing around the kitchen, showing off my new moves to my family. They are truly fortunate!
Aerobics and I have rekindled our romance. I ditched the gym I never visited and purchased a Jazzercise pass. I’m even contemplating buying some fresh workout clothes—maybe a splash of blue eyeliner too! And guess what? I heard Jane has just released her exercise video on DVD. I’m definitely going to check that out.
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In summary, my journey with Jane Fonda has come full circle. From my teenage years of bouncing around my bedroom to embracing the thrill of Jazzercise in my adult life, the joy of movement remains a cherished part of who I am.
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