Fitness
Exercise Scientist Critiques 1980s Fitness Trends | BOXROX
The 1980s were an era of groundbreaking fitness enthusiasm. People were ecstatic about new ways to get in shape, but not every trend stood the test of time. From flashy gym commercials to peculiar home workout equipment, the decade brought with it an abundance of both beneficial and questionable fitness practices. Dr. Mike Israetel, an exercise scientist and longtime professor, reminisces about the highs and lows of 1980s fitness with a humorous, critical eye. Whether discussing questionable fitness tech or odd spa routines, his insights reveal how far fitness has come and what can be learned from this unforgettable period.
Dr Mike Israetel, PhD in Sport Physiology and co-founder of Renaissance Periodization, is a well-respected professor in the bodybuilding community. He doesn’t only talk about workouts and fitness tips, he often dives deep into health and nutrition.
The fitness landscape of the 80s was littered with peculiar commercials promoting high-end gym facilities. These ads often made working out seem like the next frontier, as if stepping into a futuristic spaceship rather than a gym. The trend of circuit training in gyms was sold as revolutionary, though today it’s a staple in most fitness centers. Not to mention the emergence of hybrid equipment, designed to deliver full-body workouts but often causing more harm than good. While some of the training concepts were on point, others, as Dr. Mike points out, were downright risky and gimmicky.
In this article, we delve into the highs and lows of 1980s fitness trends, through the lens of modern exercise science. We critique not only the effectiveness of the workouts but also their lasting impact on fitness culture today. Through this analysis, we hope to understand which aspects of 80s fitness should remain in the past and which are still relevant today.
Related: The Biggest Mistakes Made By Personal Trainers
The 1980s Fitness Boom: A Cultural Phenomenon
Fitness in the 1980s was an exciting new frontier for many. Exercise and gym memberships became widely popular, largely due to a combination of media influence and the emergence of corporate fitness centres. High-tech gyms were marketed as must-have memberships, and fitness became synonymous with being fashionable and trendy.
Commercials for gyms like the “Bally Matrix Fitness Center” sold the idea of sleek, futuristic workouts with promises of sculpting perfect bodies. These gyms had everything from running tracks to swimming pools, which for the time, seemed cutting-edge. However, as Dr. Mike humorously points out, these advertisements often took themselves a little too seriously, presenting suburban gym facilities as high-tech health clubs straight out of a science fiction movie. What was particularly interesting about these commercials was their heavy focus on serious weightlifting alongside cardiovascular training—something that remains a staple in modern fitness programs.
Source: Max Vakhtbovych on Pexels
The Rise of Home Workout Equipment: Innovation or Hazard?
With the surge in fitness enthusiasm, home workout equipment started to explode in popularity. This is where things started to take a dangerous turn. Many people were ill-equipped to use these new devices correctly, leading to a spike in workout-related injuries. Dr. Mike explains that while lifting weights can be incredibly beneficial for health and longevity, improper use of exercise equipment, especially at home, can be deadly. The lack of instruction and improper set-up of home gyms often resulted in severe injuries—some fatal.
The Only 8 Bodyweight Exercises You Need to Build Muscle Fast
As he mentions, one of the most common causes of death related to lifting involved home bench presses where individuals would staple their necks with the barbell. With no spotter or safety mechanism in place, tragedies ensued. Despite the perceived convenience of home workouts, without proper safety precautions and guidance, home equipment posed significant risks.
The Jane Fonda Influence: A Step in the Right Direction?
No discussion of 80s fitness is complete without mentioning Jane Fonda and her revolutionary home workout videos. Fonda’s workout tapes became cultural icons, and her emphasis on aerobic fitness was a major influence on the exercise trends of the time. She encouraged cardiovascular exercise and body sculpting, two aspects of fitness that remain important today.
While Dr. Mike acknowledges the value of Fonda’s focus on technique, such as proper form during dumbbell exercises, he also critiques the light weights and repetitive movements as insufficient for anyone serious about building strength. The aerobic fitness revolution spearheaded by Fonda encouraged millions to work out, but as Dr. Mike suggests, the workout routines were often more geared toward getting people off the couch rather than building a truly functional and strong physique.
When to Switch Exercises for Maximum Muscle Growth
Exercise Machines and Gadgets: Where Did They Go Wrong?
A peculiar aspect of 1980s fitness was the prevalence of specialized machines that promised to target specific muscle groups. One of the most common sights in 80s gyms was the leg extension machine. While such machines were popular, they often focused on isolating muscles at the expense of overall functional movement. Dr. Mike advocates for compound exercises that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, such as squats or deadlifts, over single-joint isolation exercises.
By contrast, the technology used in fitness equipment back then was often gimmicky, trying to sell a “quick fix” rather than a sustainable fitness program. For example, the Smith machine, which was touted as a safer option for squats and bench presses, often created more problems than it solved. As Dr. Mike explains, the Smith machine locks you into a single plane of motion, which can lead to poor movement patterns and injuries if not used properly.
Dangerous Spa Routines: More Than Just Relaxation
The wellness spa trend of the 1980s took fitness to new levels of exclusivity and expense. Some spas charged exorbitant fees for clients to be subjected to extreme diets and caloric restrictions that would now be considered unethical and even dangerous. One notable example highlighted by Dr. Mike is the infamous “Golden Door” spa, where guests were fed a meager 700 calories per day—barely enough to sustain basic bodily functions, let alone fuel an active lifestyle.
The extreme diets and routines offered by these high-end spas were less about health and more about catering to an aesthetic ideal. Dr. Mike humorously compares the $10,000 spa fees (adjusted for inflation) to modern-day cults, where participants were stripped of their individuality and forced into restrictive regimes under the guise of achieving inner tranquility.
Exercise Scientist Critiques 1980s Fitness Trends
Fitness in the 2020s: What Have We Learned?
The 1980s may have been an exciting time for fitness enthusiasts, but it also serves as a reminder of the importance of balance, science, and safety in exercise. Today, the lessons learned from the excesses and errors of 80s fitness have shaped more effective, sustainable approaches to working out. Compound movements, proper technique, and a focus on overall functional fitness have become the gold standards of training.
While the flashy outfits and enthusiasm for exercise should be celebrated, the poorly constructed machines, dangerous fad diets, and unsafe home equipment are better left in the past. Dr. Mike’s humorous yet insightful critique serves as a reminder that fitness is a lifelong journey, and the best practices are rooted in science, safety, and sustainability.
Key Takeaways
| Key Aspect | 80s Fitness Trend | Modern Perspective |
|---|---|---|
| Gym Commercials | Serious, futuristic tone | Lighthearted, realistic fitness marketing |
| Home Workout Equipment | High injury risk due to improper use | Safer, well-designed equipment with better guidance |
| Jane Fonda’s Workouts | Focus on aerobic fitness, light weights | Cardiovascular fitness still important, but strength training necessary |
| Exercise Machines | Isolated muscle movements | Preference for compound exercises, functional fitness |
| Spa Diets | Extremely low-calorie, restrictive diets | Balanced nutrition focused on health and performance |
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Fitness
This High-Performance, Stylish Activewear Brand Has Topped My List of Workout Clothes for Nearly a Decade
As Women’s Health’s style and reviews writer,, I have drawers filled with activewear, so you can rest assured that I know a thing or two about the best workout clothes for women. And while I try a lot of compression leggings and moisture-wicking underwear that blow me away, I also try some not-so-great stuff that makes their way to the bottom of my dresser or giveaway pile.
Best Workout Clothes for Women
Over the past two years, I’ve tested over 30 activewear brands—from gym staples to runner-friendly picks to stylish options that are more about the look than the workout. Meanwhile, our fashion contributors Lily Wohlner, Kristen Saladino, and Rose Lauture bring 20-plus years of experience testing fashion brands to the table. Together, we teamed up to curate a list of our all-time favorite workout clothes—ones that deliver on style, quality, and durability and are truly worth every dollar.
What to Consider
Materials
The professionals on this list agree: The best workout clothes should be comfortable. But, because sweat does happen while you’re working out, they recommend materials that are moisture-wicking, like nylon or elastane.
- Elastane/Spandex: This is a lightweight, stretchy fabric that will give your clothing that elastic feel. This is especially useful for workouts that require a lot of movement and stretching, like yoga or Pilates.
- Nylon: A soft, stretchy, and durable fabric that’s moisture-wicking—perfect for when you want to stay dry and keep sweat stains at bay during your workout.
- Polyester: This fabric naturally repels water, wicks sweat like a pro, and dries quickly, making it ideal for high-intensity workouts. It’s also lightweight, breathable, and durable—plus, it won’t shrink or wrinkle easily.
Price
I’m gonna be honest—some of the brands on this list can get a little pricey (hi, lululemon and Vuori). But, the pros recommend them because they’re long-lasting, and they feel stretchy and soft rather than heavy and constricting. If you’re looking for something on the more affordable side, check out Amazon’s exclusive workout brands or Adanola, which has many stylish options for less than $100.
Durability
Speaking of long-lasting wear, you want to make sure your workout clothes won’t pill, stretch, or lose their color after a few wears and washes. All the brands on this list have passed that test. Registered dietician Maddie Pasquariello, RDN, has even owned the same pair of leggings from Splits59 for five years and says they’re still good as new.
Besides their ability to stay intact for years, you also want to make sure your workout clothes pass the wear test. Do they allow for movement? Are they see-through while squatting or bending over? Does the waistband slide down? You can get a good sense of whether or not your activewear passes the wear test by trying it on in person before you make a purchase.
How We Chose
For the past two years, Women’s Health editors, including myself and fashion contributors Lily Wohlner, Rose Lauture, and Kristen Saladino, have been testing the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated workout clothes. We used our first-hand experience and consulted other fitness and fashion professionals to narrow down our favorites and determine what to consider when shopping. We rated all the workout clothes on versatility, sizing, clothing options, moisture-wicking abilities, durability, and comfort. The options that got the highest marks are the ones that made it onto this list.
Are you ready to shop our activewear faves? Look no further than this curated list of the best workout clothes for women to shop now.
lululemon Align Hi-Rise Pant
lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short
lululemon Chargefeel 3 Workout Shoes
Lululemon’s technical apparel has been the holy grail of activewear since the brand launched its signature buttery-soft leggings and yoga pants, and we’re huge fans. Motivational speaker Denise Vitola, a devoted lulu fan, says the brand stands out for blending endurance, performance, and fashion. But what truly sets lululemon apart is its obsessive attention to detail—from sweat-wicking fabrics that feel like a second skin to precision tailoring that moves with you. Our fashion editors agree: these pieces don’t just last, they become essentials you can’t live without.
One downside of lululemon’s activewear is that it errs on the pricier side, but our editors definitely think it’s worth the investment, since lululemon excels at durability. Founder of Yoga Kawa Echo Wang agrees. “Lululemon’s outfits hold up wash after wash and they feel amazing and so stretchy during yoga practice,” she says.
In terms of the pieces we love, the lululemon Align Leggings can’t go without a shoutout. Our editors love them for their breathability, barely-there feel, and how easy they are to move in thanks to the perfect blend of stretchy elastane and smooth nylon. All of those features extend to its other activewear, like sweat-wicking tops, biker shorts, sports bras, and more.
Another loved product by Vitola and our team? The cult-classic Energy Bra, which is one of our all-time favorite sports bras, is especially great for medium-impact activity like strength training or jogging. “It’s super comfortable on my shoulders and doesn’t give me a uni-boob under my shirts,” she says, adding that she likes that the cross straps take the pressure off your shoulders during wear.
Read More: Best lululemon Items
Most Affordable: Crz Yoga
Crz Yoga Strappy Longline Sports Bra
Crz Yoga Butterluxe Cross Waist Workout Leggings
Crz Yoga Pima Cotton Workout Tank
One brand in particular we love for comfort, durability, and price? Crz Yoga. The affordable brand delivers styles (and quality!) that rival even some of the pricier activewear brands.
Crz Yoga offers all sorts of super cute pieces like flare leggings, cropped tees, and longline sports bras. Founder of iCORE Method Courtney Virden says this is her all-time fave activewear brand because it’s super stylish without breaking the bank. She also adds that the brand is constantly adding new items to its roster, so fresh and fun styles and colors to choose from.
Since Crz Yoga’s prices are more budget-friendly, I was a little skeptical about the quality. But after trying the Butterluxe Workout Leggings, I was surprised—they’re almost as comfortable as our top pick, lululemon. And at half the price, they’re an even easier buy.
Most Comfortable: Vuori
Vuori AllTheFeels Legging
Vuori AllTheFeels Bra
Vuori Restore Half Zip Jacket Hoodie
Vuori is another personal favorite on this list, as its fabric is unbelievably soft without slacking on compression. After trying many pairs of leggings, I found that I felt the most confident at the gym when wearing Vuori’s Daily Legging, because it contours any lumps and bumps and makes my ‘bod look so smooth and snatched, but it doesn’t feel overly compressive or tight.
Vuori not only hugs you in all the right places, but the textures are so soft against your skin (hi, polyester and elastane blend), says personal trainer, Kim Strother, NASM, who also loves the brand’s Daily Collection. “Vuori is really made to move,” she says. “Not all activewear is actually comfortable to work out in, but this brand fits my very active lifestyle.”
Gini Grimsley, MS, director of fitness products at Vasa Fitness, is a big fan of Vuori’s famed Performance Joggers because they allow for a ton of movement without needing to readjust the waistband. As a weight lifter, she never has to adjust her clothing between sets, meaning she has more time to focus on the task at hand. Vuori’s proprietary fabric is so comfy that we’ve even worn its leggings for couch rotting, lounging, errands, and the list goes on.
I did notice that Vuori’s sizing is not as inclusive as other brands on this list, with most of its options only ranging from XXS to 2X (as a reference, Girlfriend Collective’s options go all the way to a 6X!).
Read more:Vuori Review
Best Quality: Athleta
Athleta Interval Bra
Now 18% Off
Athleta Interval High Rise Legging
Athleta Easy Fleece 1/2 Zip Hoodie
Now 44% Off
I’ve been testing activewear for years, but it was only until recently that I gave Athleta a shot, and it has quickly become one of my all-time favorite activewear brands. And, that seems like a common theme—three experts we spoke to praise its fashion-forward styles and comfortable fit. But, the common thread among our team and experts was that the fabrics wear very well and the materials are super high-quality.
Certified personal trainer Rachel Macpherson, CSCS, wears and tests workout clothes daily, and one thing she loves about Athleta is never having to worry about see-through fabric while stretching or squatting. Plus, its materails hold up well after multiple washes. The brand offers six proprietary fabrics, ranging from second-skin softness to cooling technology for intense workouts. The best part? They’re all super stretchy, so you don’t have to worry about rips or tears mid-workout.
Golf instructor Erica Larkin loves Athleta’s layering pieces and outerwear—like its pullovers and jackets—as they keep her dry and warm during every season. Plus, they’re easy to move and swing in. Taryn Toomey, founder and creative director of The Class, agrees. She loves moving in a way that lets her focus on how her body feels, not her clothes—and Athleta’s gear makes that easy.
Freshest Styles: Nike
Nike Swoosh Medium Support Sports Bra
Nike Pro Sculpt High-Waisted 7/8 Leggings
When it comes to activewear, there’s a high chance you have at least one Nike piece in your closet—at least WH editors all do. In our opinion, the brand has the freshest styles, with its pieces ranging from practical gym ‘fits to streetwear staples. We especially like that Nike’s sizing is pretty solid, with pieces ranging from size XS to 3XL. I’m a true medium (typically a size six in clothing), and all of Nike’s medium sizes fit me like a glove, so I can also attest to the brand’s size consistency.
Dani Coleman, director of training and head trainer at Pvolve (and Jennifer Aniston’s personal trainer!), says her all-time favorite activewear brand is Nike because of its athletic styles and practical function. In our opinion, it blends streetwear (hi, bold branding, oversized fits, and trend-driven designs) with performance to make functional pieces that are designed for movement. “No matter what I have on-deck, its styles easily morph into any occasion from being in the studio or out and about.” We’ve even worn some of its clothing to spruce up a GNO.
Coleman specifically loves the Zenvy Legging (I’m also a huge fan of these—they’re lightweight and squat-proof!), the Alate Sports Bra, and her all-time favorite training shoe, the Nike Free Metcon 6. A favorite of mine from the brand is the Nike Swoosh Medium Support Bra, which actually won our best overall spot in our best sports bras roundup for its compressive feel that keeps you locked in during runs, Pilates, walks, yoga, and HIIT. What specifically draws Coleman to Nike is its representation and diversity as a brand and in its products. “It also pushes the envelope on innovation and partners with some of the most talented athletes in the world,” she says.
Splits59 Ella High Waist Airweight 7/8
Splits59 Ella Airweight Tank
Registered dietician Maddie Pasquariello, RDN, has had a longtime obsession with Splits59 because its products hold up better than any others she owns. She says she’s owned one of the brand’s leggings for five years (!!), and they’ve retained their shape, stretch, and color the entire time.
Pasquariello also adds that she prefers matte fabrics over shiny ones, and Splits 59 has many options that are up her alley. Plus, we especially love the colors and patterns the clothes are available in, all options that are easy to mix and match.
While Pasquariello loves everything she’s tried from the brand, she calls out the Ella High Waist Airweight Legging as well as the matching Ella Airweight Bra—they’re made out of moisture-wicking and quick-drying nylon that keep you comfortable during super sweaty workouts. And don’t sleep on the stretchy tanks and tees—the Jackson Rib Turtleneck is so cute and it has thumb holes, which makes it perfect for chillier days, she notes.
Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket Legging
Girlfriend Collective Tina Open Back Unitard
Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket Run Short
Girlfriend Collective is a great option for activewear, but what makes it stand out is its commitment to size inclusivity. All of its clothing options range from a size XXS to a 6XL, so it caters to so many body types.
Wang loves Girlfriend clothing specifically for yoga, touting the Float line as the fabric is slightly thicker and more compressive for flexible moves like downward dog or child’s pose. While its clothes are slightly more expensive, she says she sees Girlfriend Collective as an investment in quality, comfort, and inclusive sizing. Style coach Liz Wendler is also a fan of the brand, calling out its Compressive Leggings and Paloma Racerback Bra. “This set is incredibly comfortable and sits at the right spot for comfort and movement,” she says.
I do find that its sizing runs a tad bit big, so if you want your workout attire to fit more on the snug side, opt for a size down that what you’d normally go for.
Amazon Essentials Active FormFlex Y-Back Sports Bra
Amazon Essentials Active FormFlex High Waist Biker Shorts
ICYMI, Amazon Essentials—known for its stylish, affordable basics—launched its own line of activewear earlier this summer. The collection is full of super cute pieces starting at just $17, which deals and trends editor Sidney Lee loves for low-impact workouts and daily athleisure wear.
The brand’s signature FormFlex fabric (a blend of smooth nylon and stretchy elastane), which you can find in most of the line, is buttery-soft and breathable with light support. Lee is a fan of the Active FormFlex Y-Back Sports Bra to keep cool and ready to bend during yoga and Pilates, as well as the Active FormFlex High Waist Biker Shorts, which don’t slip while running and don’t show any sweat marks (at least in navy).
Read More: Amazon Essentials Activewear Review
Most Popular: Alo Yoga
Alo Airlift Intrigue Bra
Now 31% Off
Alo Accolade Full Zip Hoodie
Alo HIgh-Waist Airlift Leggings
Alo is always ahead of the curve when it comes to fashion-forward activewear. And, that’s why it’s the most widely worn brand among our editors. The brand is a trendsetter in the fitness world, but it also has fashion-forward styles we feel super chic wearing on the street. We appreciate the brand because the quality of its clothing is consistently top-notch, its sizing is inclusive, and its pieces hold up through all kinds of activities.
Saladino loves that the brand makes a little bit of everything—biker shorts perfect for hot yoga or summer workouts, recovery sneakers, smoothing leggings, and the list goes on. And, we love that it introduces new, fun colors every month so its products never get old and there’s always an option for anyone.
The brand offers three signature fabrics: Airlift (82% polyester, 18% elastane), Airbrush (87% nylon, 13% elastane), and Alosoft (87% polyester, 13% elastane). Each one has a different feel—whether you want high compression, extra softness, or more stretch. This makes shopping at Alo a breeze, and once you find a fabric you love, you can stick with it and grab different styles in the same material.
Read More: Alo Yoga Review
Most Versatile: Adanola
Adanola Ultimate Short Sleeve Zip Up Top
Adanola Ultimate Wrap Over Leggings
Like many of the other brands on this list, Adanola offers a variety of styles that work with different dress codes from the gym to the office. But, we also love that most of its pieces are below $100. And DW, the quality is surprisingly great for the price.
Adanola is a favorite in fitness instructor Aubre Winters-Casiano’s closet. Its apparel is simple yet makes you feel like the coolest and most confident gal in the room, she says. I’ve worn its clothes to the gym, but I also own pieces perfect for lounging around my apartment.
Winter-Casiano’s favorite pieces are the Ultimate Tank Bra, the Ultimate Leggings, and the Ultimate Long Sleeve Longline Top. “The Ultimate Sleeveless Unitard is also so flattering,” she adds. She also calls out that the brand shows its pieces on models of all different body types and shapes, which makes her feel really confident ordering online while pregnant.
Saladino says that its fabric feels thick and super high-quality. For the leggings specifically, the high-waisted band stays securely in place without any need for adjustments during yoga. “I most often reach for its flared leggings—they’re my go-to for barre class, especially when I’m wearing ankle weights.” And, on weekends, she reaches for them just to lounge because they’re just that comfortable. She even ended up buying two more pairs so she always has a clean option in her drawer.
FP Movement Retro Rider Layer
FP Movement Varsity Blues Shorts
Both myself and Lauture are obsessed with the adorable styles from FP Movement. We can confidently say we’ve never felt more stylish—whether we’re working out, hiking, running, or just lounging. The pieces pair effortlessly with anything, but the subtle boho flair and vibrant, versatile colors make them stand out. Plus, its quality is amazing—its workout sets are extremely soft and maintain their quality after multiple washes, Lauture says.
I also love the versatility of FP Movement. In my mind, they’re less of a workout brand and more of a lifestyle label because there are so many clothing options to choose from. I own the extremely soft and stretchy Never Better Full-Length Leggings, but I also have outerwear like the Mountain Top Half Zip Fleece and cozies like the For The Win Sleeveless Sweatshirt and the Let’s Bounce Pant.
If you want ultra high-performance gear, FP Movement might not be your best bet. But if you’re after everyday staples that can take you from the gym to the rest of your day while keeping you effortlessly cute, it’s a solid choice.
Meet the Experts
- Denise Vitola is a fitness instructor, wellness coach, and motivational speaker.
- Liz Wendler is a style coach.
- Echo Wang is the founder of Yoga Kawa.
- Rachel Macpherson, CPT, is a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach.
- Erica Larkin is a golf instructor at Larkin Golf.
- Taryn Toomey is the founder and creative director of The Class.
- Kim Strother, CPT, is a certified personal trainer and yoga instructor.
- Gini Grimsley, MS, is the director of fitness products at Vasa Fitness.
- Aubre Winters-Casiano is the founder of Sweat Sessions Studio.
- Dani Coleman is the director of training and head trainer at Pvolve.
- Maddie Pasquariello, MS, RDN is a registered dietician.
- Kristen Hislop is a certified personal trainer and running coach.
- Courtney Virden is the founder of iCORE Method.
Shop Other Activewear We Love
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Shannen Zitz is the Associate Style & Reviews Editor at Women’s Health, where she covers all-things sneakers and activewear. Previously, she was an assistant editor at Prevention. Shannen graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor’s degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.
Christian is the Style and Reviews Director at Men’s Health and Women’s Health, where he oversees shopping and style content for both brands. He started his magazine career as an accessories assistant at Vogue, and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he’s not online shopping, you can find him on long walks with his two corgis.
Fitness
IU, ‘Forced Exercise’ Low Fitness Confirmed… “You Need Muscles to Live Long” [I Live Alone] [★Night TView]
![IU, ‘Forced Exercise’ Low Fitness Confirmed… “You Need Muscles to Live Long” [I Live Alone] [★Night TView]](https://i0.wp.com/image.starnewskorea.com/cdn-cgi/image/f=auto,w=1200,h=672,fit=cover,q=high,sharpen=2/21/2026/04/2026042423130151678_1.jpg?ssl=1 "IU, ‘Forced Exercise’ Low Fitness Confirmed… “You Need Muscles to Live Long” [I Live Alone] [★Night TView]")
*This content was translated by AI.
Singer and actress IU confirmed her low fitness level.
In the MBC variety program ‘I Live Alone’ broadcast on the 24th, the daily life of Soobin, an actress who has been living alone for six years, was revealed.
That day, Soobin met her close friend IU, whom she connected with through ’21st Century Grand Duchess’, and Lee Yeon, and went for a walk along the Han River.
Seeing IU run over happily, Soobin revealed their close bond, saying, “Since we are only one year apart, we are almost like friends. When we meet often, we gather once every one to two weeks.”
As they approached their favorite restaurant, Soobin pulled IU along, saying, “I misunderstood the reservation time. Let’s walk a bit more before going.”
When IU was flustered to learn there was still an hour and a half until the reservation time, Soobin revealed her true intention, saying, “Actually, I didn’t misunderstand the reservation time. It’s just that Ji-eun is such a homebody. So, Yeon and I have been trying to get her to exercise.”
During the walk, when Soobin saw cherry blossoms in full bloom, she took photos of IU and Lee Yeon, showing her affectionate older brother side. Responding to a request to take the photo with a “Nae-jong” (a popular camera app), she captured the shot with golden ratio proportions, drawing admiration.
Soobin demonstrated using exercise equipment installed on the side of the walking path and encouraged IU to exercise. However, despite IU’s best efforts, she pleaded, “I can’t even do one,” causing everyone to burst into laughter.
Seeing this, Soobin joked, “They say you need muscles to live long,” and added, “You’re sweating so much on your philtrum,” bringing laughter to the group.
*This content was translated by AI.
I’ll rant to anyone I know about the importance of maintaining muscle mass as we age to prevent conditions like sacropeonia and even osteoporosis.
Cardiovascular health has also been linked to longevity.
But what about flexibility? Though it might be less talked about than the other two, this, too, has been linked to a longer life, especially among men.
You may know the importance of lifting weights for strength and understand that everything from tennis to cycling and running can improve your heart health.
What, though, does a person to increase their flexibility – and does it change over time?
We asked personal trainers to share their thoughts:
In your 20s and 30s
James Bickerstaff, a personal trainer at Origym, told us: “In your 20s and 30s, your body still has natural elasticity, so muscles and joints move easily and recover quickly”.
Nonetheless, he adds, sitting for long periods of time (as you may do for work) can hold your flexibility back.
“To maintain mobility, focus on stretching major muscle groups by performing dynamic stretches such as leg swings for the hips and static chest openers for the upper body,” he advised.
“Short daily sessions, along with activities like yoga, Pilates, or tai chi, can help prevent stiffness.”
In your 40s and 50s
Trainer and owner of Made Possible Personal Training, a gym which works mainly with those aged 50 and up, Heather Lachance, said: “One of the biggest things I try to help people understand is that losing flexibility isn’t a given”.
But in our 40s and 50s, she said, more of us notice we’re not as flexible as we used to be.
“At this stage, adding 10 minutes of mobility work a few times a week, especially dynamic movements before workouts and static stretches afterwards, can go a long way,” she advised.
“Leg swings, hip openers, thoracic rotations, that sort of thing. It doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to be done consistently.”
For his part, Bickerstaff recommends swimming and dancing alongside stretches.
In your 60s
“In your 60s and later years, joints become less mobile, cartilage thins, and muscles tighten more easily,” Bickerstaff explained.
“This can make everyday tasks feel restricted and raise the risk of falls. At this stage, flexibility work is about protecting independence and helping you move safely.”
Lachance stated that yoga and pilates can be great in this decade as they provide a “low-impact” form of exercise.
In your 70s and beyond
At this age, Lachance said, “The conversation becomes more about maintaining independence, things like being able to get up off the floor, move confidently through space, and reduce the falling risk.
“Here, I pair flexibility with balance and strength work. Chair-based stretching, simple guided routines, and daily movement all play a role.”
Sated hamstring and tricep stretches can help, Bickerstaff agreed, as can resistance bands and plain ol’ walking ― gentle, daily movement is key.
“No matter the age, the message is the same: you don’t need to be able to do the splits, but you do need to move well enough to live your life without restriction,” Lachance ended.
“Flexibility is really about freedom! Freedom to keep doing the things you enjoy without pain or hesitation.”
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Augusta, GA2 minutes agoFree, inexpensive swim, lessons offered in Augusta, Aiken
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Washington, D.C8 minutes agoSantana Moss hosts clinic for kids with disabilities in Southeast DC – WTOP News
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Cleveland, OH14 minutes agoSeveral people injured in multi-vehicle crash on Cleveland’s West Side
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Austin, TX20 minutes ago
Texas cooks up new rules for food trucks
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Alabama26 minutes agoPackers draft Alabama CB in sixth round
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Alaska32 minutes ago‘The birds are a global citizen’: Indigenous groups in Australia and Alaska team up to track a feathered adventurer’s epic journey
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Arizona38 minutes agoBears NFL Draft 2026: Chicago selects Keyshaun Elliott, Arizona State, LB
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Arkansas44 minutes ago
2026 NFL Draft: Browns select Arkansas QB Taylen Green at No. 182 overall
