The Unsung Heroes of Health & Fitness

1964 the year chemotherapy was used for the first time, the civil rights act was signed and the year Jacki Sorenson, launched a groundbreaking fitness programme aimed at the wives of male USA Airforce personnel.. it was called ‘aerobics’…

Little did Jacki know that her vision would lay the foundations for a fitness revolution, her commitment to improving health set the stage for what we now know as group exercise.

In the 1970's the UK experienced the creation of 'Popmobility' by London-based athletics coach, Ken Woolcott MBE.

Popmobility grew quickly and played a huge part in getting people active, with classes taking part in leisure centre sports halls which could often accommodate between 150 and 250 exercisers at any one time.

Fast forward to the vibrant 1980s and group exercise was now an established and vital component of the fitness landscape. Not only was it available in a multitude of community venues, it was also on mainstream television every weekday morning. Imagine that now!

I personally remember this whole era, because my mother was an exercise to music instructor during this time.

She was a force of nature, teaching up to four classes a day with an unwavering smile. Her dedication was infectious, creating a loyal following among participants.

She continued to lead group exercise classes until she was 80, a testament to the passion and resilience of these remarkable instructors.

One of the most appealing aspects of exercise to music is its ability to make fitness enjoyable. So while people recognised the health benefits of exercise, they yearned for excitement and variety, not monotony. This desire for fun paved the way for the rise of 'exercise to music' classes.

The founding exercise to music instructors prepared their playlists (a box of vinyl records) and choreographed movements to rhythm, transforming workouts into dance parties. This not only got people moving but also fostered a sense of community and socialisation.

Today, the world of group exercise has moved on from leotards and leg warmers. It now encompasses everything from CrossFit and Zumba to boutique fitness classes equipped with cutting-edge technology.

Despite their obvious differences, these classes all share a common theme – the power of people coming together in groups to exercise. This group dynamic boosts motivation, increases participation, and creates an environment where fitness goals are not just met but friendships are created.

This is why I’m so passionate about ensuring we remember and celebrate the unsung heroes who fill halls and studios every day – the group exercise instructors.

They are the heart and soul of fitness, consistently inspiring and ensuring that people stay active.

As we continue to evolve, let's not forget to recognise and honour the incredible instructors who make fitness more than just a routine – they make it enjoyable and fun, day after day, week after week and year after year.

Their predecessors laid the foundations for everything we now do and must never forget that.