Whatever happened to those “hard bod” exercise teachers who advised us to “go for the burn” in those 1980s aerobic classes?

They’re hobbling around with all kinds of injuries, says this article in today’s New York Times.

Some former aerobics enthusiasts are almost wistful. “We had a great time,” said Frederick Schjang, 48, who taught the classes for more than a decade. “And we got our hearts in shape.” He admitted, however, that he has paid a price. “The persistent stress on the joints finally got to us,” he said. He blames aerobics for a torn meniscus, which required surgery, and for the osteoarthritis he has in both knees. “I gave my knees to the aerobics movement,” he said.

As a result, Mr. Schjang, still teaches 15 group classes a week, but mostly Pilates and Feldenkrais Method…

If they hadn’t hurt themselves, they wouldn’t be turning us all toward the healing modalities available in most health clubs today.

Let’s thank them profusely for their sacrifice and the wisdom that has come from it!