Jane Fonda, who became famous for aerobics in the 1980s, maintains a daily exercise routine at 88 by focusing on five gentler, sustainable movements that align with health guidelines, graziamagazine.com reported. Rather than stopping physical activity, the fitness icon shifted her pace. “I essentially do everything I used to do, just slower,” Fonda told People in early 2025.
Outdoor Walking Replaces Running Routines
The high-impact running of Fonda’s earlier decades has given way to walking as her primary form of cardio. She told W Magazine that walking is her preferred method, supplemented by indoor treadmill and stationary bike sessions depending on the weather. She told People she specifically enjoys exercising outdoors in wooded areas with hills. Health experts note that walking is low impact, protects joints, and supports cardiovascular health.
Split Strength Training Targets Specific Muscle Groups
To counteract the natural decline of muscle mass that occurs with age, Fonda structures her resistance work into a split routine. She told W Magazine that she alternates her sessions, dedicating one day to the upper body and the following day to the lower body. Maintaining leg strength assists with daily physical functions such as climbing stairs and rising from a chair.
Challenging Balance and Mobility Through Terrain
Walking on uneven ground and hills outdoors provides natural challenges for balance and coordination, which aid in fall prevention. Home routines can incorporate simple movements like standing on one foot or walking heel-to-toe. Alongside balance, Fonda incorporates stretching to maintain joint mobility and comfort during daily tasks, having recently led a stretching class for the Supernatural virtual reality fitness app on Meta Quest.
Slower Tempo Reduces Injury Risks
The primary adjustment in Fonda’s current regimen is the speed of execution. “The operative word is slower,” Fonda told W Magazine, noting that she performs many of her historical exercises at a reduced tempo. Moving with controlled pacing minimizes injury risks and keeps targeted muscles engaged throughout the full range of motion.
World Health Organization Guidelines Align with Routine
Fonda’s current fitness approach corresponds with World Health Organization recommendations for older adults. The WHO advises accumulating 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly, such as brisk walking, combined with muscle-strengthening exercises on at least two days. For individuals over 65, the guidelines suggest incorporating varied balance and strength activities three or more days per week to sustain functional ability and prevent falls.
Common Questions About Jane Fonda’s Routine
What cardio does Jane Fonda do now?
Fonda relies primarily on outdoor walking, particularly on hills and in wooded areas, alongside indoor treadmill and stationary bike sessions as reported by W Magazine and People.
How often does Jane Fonda do strength training?
She alternates her resistance workouts, focusing on her upper body one day and her lower body the next, according to her interview with W Magazine.
What are the WHO guidelines for adults over 65?
The World Health Organization recommends 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly, strength training at least two days a week, and multi-component physical activity emphasizing balance and strength on three or more days.