The 1980s were a time of big hair, Madonna, Trapper Keepers, and music videos on MTV. We could take this whole article to list the many iconic things from the ’80s and are still referenced and loved today.
However, there is one activity of the ’80s that deserves our complete attention: aerobics.
Yes, you read that correctly aerobics, with its leotards, leg warmers, and upbeat music such as Olivia Newton-John’s “Physical.”. With the names of Jane Fonda and Richard Simmons at the forefront of aerobics, it was hard for people to resists.
It was indeed a phenomenon, from the outfits to the videos and the countless other celebrities that joined in.
Aerobics was not only a fad, but it helped to popularize working out and has made the fitness industry what it is today.
One of the most popular facets of aerobics was home videos that allowed people to work out in the comfort of their own living room instead of being surrounded by strangers at a gym.
At its core, aerobics aren’t meant to be competitive, but that is where this video brings us, the 1988 Crystal Light National Aerobic Championships.
This video is the opening sequence to kick off the competition with women and men in red and blue outfits showing off their skills and getting viewers excited for the program.
The song they are performing is the “National Aerobic Championship Theme” by Ty Parr.
“We are the winners; watch us glimmer
Like the sunset of champions!
We’re in Control, body, and soul
We push ourselves to the maximum!
The Champions, The Champions!
We Are The Champions!”
Maybe it’s because of the current popularity of this video, but as soon as you hear this song, there is something so nostalgic about it, even for people who weren’t around in the ’80s. This song is so catchy you might just find yourself singing and bopping along as you watch the video.
With each camera cut, there is a new pair or group, and it keeps getting better and better as the video progresses.
The athleticism, flexibility, and endurance it takes to make it to such a high level is incredible.
The national aerobic championships lasted several years, which means it was doing something right. And even more so, just watching this video now, in 2021, can make you want to pull up your leg warmers and get moving.
So it’s no wonder this video is still popular on the internet today with many dubbed-over versions, such as one that features Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off,” which sinks so nicely you would think the song and video were from the same decade.
While this particular video is only of the opening choreography, you can find longer segments and even clips of the whole 1988 competition and other year’s championships all over the internet. And trust us, it’s worth the watch.
Be sure to check out the video below for yourself. Just be warned, it might cause sudden dancing, or we should say aerobicizing.
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