Fitness is going back in time—literally. Across gyms, parks, and social media platforms in the U.S., Americans are embracing a new kind of workout revolution that looks a lot like the fitness scene of the 1980s and 1990s. Step aerobics, rollerblading, jazzercise, and classic boxing routines are making a dramatic return, becoming some of the most searched and practiced workouts in early 2025. According to PureGym’s latest annual Fitness Report, online searches for “step aerobics workout” and “rollerblading fitness” have spiked by more than 150% compared to the same time last year.
This resurgence isn’t just nostalgia-fueled whimsy—it’s driven by a combination of social trends, technological fatigue, and a renewed focus on mental wellness and sustainable fitness habits.
A Cultural Shift Toward Feel-Good Fitness
The cultural pendulum appears to be swinging away from punishing, high-performance workout regimens and back toward movement that feels joyful, accessible, and—perhaps most importantly—fun. Social media has played a powerful role in this shift. TikTok and Instagram have exploded with short-form videos showcasing vibrant, spandex-clad retro routines set to upbeat synth-pop soundtracks. Influencers in their 20s are now mimicking the style of VHS workout tapes, complete with exaggerated enthusiasm and colorful backdrops.
Pop culture has also pushed retro fitness back into the spotlight. Shows like Netflix’s Physical: 100 and the continued popularity of 1980s-inspired series like Stranger Things have reintroduced audiences to the style and energy of vintage workouts. In music, chart-topping artists like Dua Lipa and The Weeknd are drawing from disco and retro aesthetics, influencing not just dance floors but also gym playlists and group fitness classes.
Step Aerobics and Rollerblading Lead the Way
Step aerobics, once a staple of 1980s gym culture, has experienced a full-blown revival. Fitness chains like Crunch and LA Fitness have reintroduced step classes with a modern twist—blending classic choreography with interval training and resistance moves. The upbeat group format, combined with nostalgic music, creates a lively and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all fitness levels.
Rollerblading, meanwhile, has surged in cities from Los Angeles to Chicago. The activity, which blends cardio, strength, and coordination, became particularly popular during the pandemic as a solo outdoor option. But in 2025, the trend has transformed into a full community movement. Urban roller rinks and outdoor “blade meetups” are now weekly fixtures in major metro areas, with events like the L.A. Skate Night drawing hundreds of participants.
Even brands are taking notice. Retailers like Lululemon and Adidas have started releasing vintage-inspired gear specifically for rollerblading and aerobic-style workouts. Equipment companies are reporting renewed demand for step platforms, wrist weights, and resistance bands in fluorescent hues.
Boxing’s Timeless Appeal
Boxing, while never truly “gone,” has also experienced a retro refresh. Fitness boxing classes that incorporate old-school techniques—like jump rope drills, heavy bag work, and shadowboxing—are gaining traction in boutique gyms and online platforms. Studios such as Rumble and Title Boxing Club are integrating 90s-style conditioning into their programming, creating a hybrid workout that feels both classic and contemporary.
Part of the appeal lies in boxing’s simplicity and stress-relieving qualities. As mental health continues to be a top concern post-pandemic, many turn to boxing as a physical outlet to manage anxiety and boost mood. A 2024 study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that individuals engaging in rhythmic, repetitive exercise like boxing reported lower cortisol levels and improved mental clarity.
Why Retro Works
Experts point out that retro workouts offer more than just a blast from the past—they come with real benefits. “These workouts are fun, and that’s the key,” says Erica Mason, a certified fitness trainer based in New York City. “When people enjoy what they’re doing, they’re more likely to stick with it. And that makes the fitness benefits much more sustainable.”
Additionally, retro workouts are often more forgiving on the body compared to high-impact interval training. They encourage moderate-intensity, full-body movement that’s ideal for those recovering from injury or returning to fitness after time away. This inclusivity has helped draw a broader demographic into the trend, including older adults and beginners.
The Rise of Retro in Wellness Culture
The shift toward vintage fitness fits into a broader wellness movement that’s about reclaiming simplicity, play, and self-expression. Consumers are increasingly skeptical of fitness fads that promise quick transformations. Instead, they’re seeking experiences that feel personal, communal, and rooted in well-being.
The popularity of retro workouts also aligns with the growing “analog wellness” trend—where people intentionally reduce screen time in favor of more tactile, embodied activities. Whether it’s gliding through the park on rollerblades or breaking a sweat in a community step class, these experiences offer a welcome break from the digital overload of daily life.
From a business standpoint, gyms and trainers who lean into this trend are finding new ways to engage audiences. Some have launched “Throwback Thursdays,” where classes feature retro moves and music. Others have gone all-in with themed events, complete with costumes, glow sticks, and even retro photo booths.
