Last weekend I braved the 120-degree heat because I was curious (and foolhardy) enough to want to check out the annual Jazzercise conference in La Quinta. I don’t know about you, but I’ve been seeing Jazzercise studios popping up all over, and I’m thinking “Wow, all those 1980’s Jane Fonda drones won’t die easily!” Come to find out, Jazzercise isn’t just for middle-aged women who are allergic to Cross Fit, it’s fun–and effective–for all ages.

Can you believe it’s been 40 years since Jazzercise first came on the scene? I got a chance to interview the founder, who has got to be pushing 70 and she looks great. And we I observed the sea of smiling, sweaty women, I saw ladies her age, and kids as young as 10 all joining in the fun. It was just amazing to see women of all shapes and sizes moving to the beat to CURRENT artists like Robin Thicke and Daft Punk.

Jazzercise founder, Judi Sheppard Missett back in the 1980’s

Let’s face it–workout routines can get boring after a while, so Jazzercise comes out with new routines on video every ten weeks to keep the fans motivated. It also won’t matter if, like me, you have two left feet. You can stumble through the videos in the privacy of your own home. Once you gain your confidence, I recommend finding a studio near you. There’s one right in my neighborhood and I think I’m going to sign up for some classes once the kids get back in school.

However you do it, jump in. Do something. Get moving, and get healthy!

Take a look. You can see me bumble through one of the routines at about 4:00. 😉

Oh. My. Take a look at what Jazzercise USED to look like. I swear it’s changed. But take a look for a chuckle and a spandex-induced trip down memory lane.