How Jazzercise Founder Judi Sheppard Missett Stays Fit at 81—EXCLUSIVE
When it comes to legendary names in the fitness industry, Jazzercise founder and executive chair Judi Sheppard Missett is a true trailblazer. A lifelong dancer, she first fell in love with the art at just two-and-a-half years old—and she hasn't stopped jazzing it up since then. Now, at 81, Judi remains a beloved icon in the Jazzercise community across the globe.
We chatted with Judi about what her current workout routine looks like and how her approach to nutrition has changed over the years. (Spoiler alert: She looks incredible—and she's a total hoot!)
Dancing Keeps Judi "Fit, Sane, and Full of Energy"
Judi's passion for dance has kept her "fit, sane, and full of energy" over the years. Dancing is still an essential part of her workout routine and lifestyle. After all, staying active provides Judi with a sense of joy, and she says joy is a key part of leading a "full and productive" life.
"Dance is wonderful because it not only enables a great fitness level but keeps your mind sharp as well, having to remember all the movement combinations," Judi tells Celebwell. "Of course, I continue to do Jazzercise since I founded it in 1969. I love that we are still jazz-dance based, but we also incorporate strength training and HIIT (high-intensity interval training) classes. I feel lucky that all this has been a big part of my everyday life, and I expect it to go on for the next years to come."
Naturally, the teacher in Judi is still going strong. She currently teaches Jazzercise's low-impact class format, which is less stressful on her joints. "Within that class I also teach HIIT, Power Sculpt, and Interval versions," Judi shares. "If I am not teaching, I take class everyday either in studio or online (Jazzercise on Demand)."
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Her Approach to Diet Has Always Been About Moderation
Judi Sheppard Missett is not a fan of trendy diets or nutrition fads. Her approach to diet has always been "one of moderation," she tells us. That means plenty of protein and fresh fruits and veggies, with occasional treats thrown into the mix.
"I have always had a solid metabolism and luckily have not had to worry much about weight," Judi shares with Celebwell. "I try to eat a good amount of protein (my body weight) if I can and also focus on fruits and vegetables … I also try to eat when I'm hungry. Feeding the muscle is important but having a little fun with food is okay, too!"
Her guilty pleasures? Dairy Queen and Dr. Pepper.
Two foods Judi swears by? "I do love salmon and a good salad," she exclaims.
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Mobility Work and Strength Training Are Key Parts of Her Training
Strength training and mobility work have always been important to Judi.
"As a professional dancer, both are key to performing well," she tells us. "Luckily, I have always been very mobile and flexible and continue to work on retaining those elements. They are basic to daily functions in life as well as helping me to teach a great Jazzercise class."
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The Mindset That's Kept Her Consistent With Movement Into Her 80s
Maintaining a positive attitude is everything to Judi.
"Gratitude will help to keep you positive and able to handle challenges along the way," she explains. "Look for things that are good and try not to dwell on the negative. Sometimes it takes a lot of discipline to do that, but with a little work, it can be done."
Exercise also promotes positivity and those feel-good endorphins.
"You always have three friends with you when you exercise," Judi adds. "I call them the 'Happy Hormones'—serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. Again, you have to work for them, but the end result is worth it!"
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Her Advice To Staying Fit With Age
Staying fit as you age is the name of the game. Judi's motto? "Keep moving so you can keep going!"
Below, she provides some essentials to aging with grace:
- Move your body and exercise.
- Consume whole, natural foods and plenty of plant or animal proteins.
- Stay positive.
- Surround yourself with trusted, genuine friends.
- Give back to your community, however you can.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help—whether that be physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual—when you need it.
- Try to learn something new each day.
- Keep your life fun; celebrate something every day.
"As we age, we need to thrive, to enjoy where we have been so we can look forward with health to where we are going," Judi says.
