Long before Instagram was flooded with personal trainers and athleisure wear ruled fashion, Jane Fonda sparked the at-home exercise revolution and became the first exercise icon.
Released in 1982, Jane Fonda’s Workout was the best-selling VHS video for years, with 17 million copies sold by the mid-’90s.
The series is known for opening up the previously male-dominated world of fitness to women, as many imitative videos hit the market and aerobics classes boomed.
Now at 44, the two-time Academy Award winner for Best Actress was a Lycra-clad Hollywood star who popularized the phrase, “Feel the burn!” She sent leg warmer sales through the roof.
The now 84-year-old actor and activist has partnered with high-street giant H&M on a global campaign to reinvigorate people to wear their workout gear.
Focusing on movement rather than sport, much like Fonda brought aerobics to the masses in the 1980s, H&M Move aims to offer a more holistic vision of exercise, allowing retailers to sell products for men, women and children. We are launching a “Movewear” collection for
“I’ve spent so much of my life moving people, so I was naturally drawn to H&M Move’s mission to move the whole world,” says Fonda.
“I also really like their philosophy of ‘movewear’ over ‘sportswear.’ It’s about feeding your body so it can take care of you..”
of grace and frankie The star appears alongside American choreographer Jaquel Knight, the man behind Beyoncé’s single ladies dance routine, and the two appear together in the exercise studio in a clip to kick off the campaign.
Reprising the role of a fitness instructor in a trendy black and gray crest outfit, Fonda recalls her home video heyday in the film. The film focuses on activities like swimming, rowing, and basketball, along with everyday movements like cleaning, carrying groceries, and running up stairs.
It’s refreshing to see brands acknowledging that fitness isn’t just about high-octane exercise, it can be incorporated into a lifestyle regardless of age or ability.
You don’t have to run an ultramarathon, lift weights at the gym, or join a team to be healthy and happy. Daily activity will increase your heart rate and strengthen your muscles.
Whether you’re 8 or 80, pace yourself and most importantly, have fun.
The H&M Move will be available in stores and online on August 4th.
