The 3 simple exercises an 81-year-old fitness icon does daily to stay strong and mobile

The dance aerobics fitness class and franchise Jazzercise was founded by Judi Sheppard Missett back in 1969. You might think that after a long and successful career, Judi will be kicking back and taking it easy.

Think again. Judi hasn’t hung up her best gym leggings. She’s still creating choreography, leading classes and moving with the kind of energy that makes it impossible not to be inspired. At 81, she’s proof that strength, fitness and joy don’t have an expiration date.

Of course, she credits Jazzercise for much of her ongoing energy and active lifestyle at 81. Judi still mixes a regular rotation of Jazzercise classes, including Cardio Sculpt, Power Sculpt and Vital Sculpt HIIT.

But for those who may not have access to Jazzercise or aren’t ready to keep up with the classes, Judi kindly shared three exercises she uses outside of class that are suitable for anyone to try. These moves are great for building strength, flexibility and mobility.

Alongside the exercises, she let us in on four lifestyle tips that have been key to her staying active, energized and consistent over the years.

Judi Sheppard Missett

What are the three exercises?

Move, eat, rest, repeat: Judi’s approach to healthy living

It isn’t just the workouts that keep her feeling energetic and at her best. Her everyday habits around movement, food and rest play just as big a role, and they’re refreshingly simple to follow.

1. Keep movement varied and enjoyable

“Movement doesn’t need to be rigid,” she says. She encourages walks, swims, dance-fitness classes, or even streaming workouts at home to stay active. Research supports this idea. Science shows that choosing exercise that matches your personality can improve enjoyment, make it easier to stick with a routine and support long-term mental and physical well-being.

2. Focus on seasonal, simple nutrition

Judi emphasizes the importance of eating fresh produce, lean proteins and staying hydrated. She says, “Nutrition is about seasonal simplicity.” This aligns with evidence that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins supports energy, muscle maintenance and healthy aging. Staying hydrated is great for cognitive function, digestion, joint health and energy.

3. Prioritize rest and recovery

“Rest is just as important as movement,” Judi explains. She builds in moments for relaxation, stretching and intentional downtime, which she says helps lift her energy and mood.

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4. Make workouts fit into your life

“Find workouts that fit even the busiest schedules,” Judi says. Jazzercise is one option she loves for combining strength, cardio and flexibility in a single session, but the same principle applies to any class or routine that works for you.

Whether you prefer in-person studios, streaming workouts at home, or shorter sessions that fit between meetings or errands, when you choose something enjoyable and well-rounded, it makes it easier to stay consistent.

5. Celebrate progress and small wins

Finally, Judi stresses the importance of mindset: “Find something to celebrate every day.” Taking note of little wins and setting realistic goals can make healthy habits feel more rewarding and easier to stick to.

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