Believe it or not, retro exercise fads like the Thighmaster, Jazzercise, and Buns of Steel were the precursors to Peloton, Obé Fitness, and Instagram Live yoga sessions. In fact, you could say that '80s and '90s icons, like Jane Fonda [1] and Suzanne Somers, were the original at-home fitness stars. In addition to bringing the gym into your living room, the vintage workout tapes offer a visual guidebook to '80s fashion. Think neons and lots of spandex.
Nostalgia has always been a major fashion trend, and that includes athletic apparel. You don't have to go digging through your mom's VHS tape collection to find outfit inspiration, though — we've rounded up our picks for the cutest retro-inspired workout gear ahead.
All Access Shiny Centre Stage Leggings
These All Access Centre Stage Leggings [2] ($98), sold on Bandier, are straight out of a vintage aerobics video. The high-waisted leggings come in six different metallic shades, but our personal favourites are the electric-pink and jewel-green options.
Athleta Off-the-Shoulder Barre Sweatshirt
You don't need to be a dancer to stock up on ballet-inspired gear. This Athleta Studio Barre Sweatshirt [3] ($69) is perfect for any kind of workout, from yoga to reenacting that iconic water scene from Flashdance.
Alo Yoga Neon Scrunchie
Make a statement with the highlighter-hued Alo Yoga Neon Scrunchie [4] ($12). It will keep the stray hairs out of your face and brighten your day.
Fabletics One Shoulder Reversible Sports Bra
The Fabletics Harlow One Shoulder Reversible Sports Bra [5] ($60) is a cute two-in-one piece that will make a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
Adidas Colorblock Shorts
These Adidas Colorblock 3-Stripes Shorts [6] ($40) might remind you of something your dad would wear to exercise, but that's kind of the whole point. The red, white, and blue colour scheme screams vintage — all that's missing are ankle socks and chunky sneakers.
Spanx Ballet Pink Legwarmers
With the cold winter months approaching, consider adding leg warmers to your workout uniform for added comfort. These Spanx Legwarmers [7] ($38) in a blush-pink colour would definitely make Jane Fonda proud.
Alo Yoga Half Zip Windbreaker
Neon pieces like this Alo Yoga Renewal Half Zip Pullover [8] ($158) bring an energizing burst of colour to any outfit.
Aerie Offline Leopard Print Bike Shorts
Eighties fashion was all about maximalism — meaning prints, prints, and more prints. These Aerie Offline Pocket Bike Shorts [9] ($35) have two different adorable leopard-print options — green or red. Pair them with the matching sports bra if you're into coordinated sets!
Nike Sparkly Crop Top
The gem print on this Nike Training Crop Top [10] ($70) jazzes up a basic workout wardrobe staple, and the vivid pink colour is undeniably eye-catching. Nike also makes a matching pair of bike shorts to complete the '80s-inspired look.
Beach Hours Colour Block Leggings
There's no need to choose between bright colours and splashy patterns with the Beach Hours Aria Colour Block Leggings [11] ($55). With an electric-purple base and colourful panels below the knee, these leggings are the best of both worlds.
Puma Rainbow Sweatband
Sweatbands may not be as mainstream as they were 30 years ago, but the Puma x Fashion Geek Sweatband [12] ($15) gives the vintage look a cool streetwear edge. Sweat in style with this accessory that will make you feel like an extra in an Olivia Newton-John video.
Adidas Cotton Bodysuit
And of course, no '80s-inspired clothing haul would be complete without a leotard. This Adidas Cotton Bodysuit [13] ($40) is a classic choice. Layer it over leggings to complete the look.
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