How I Built This with Guy Raz Jazzercise: Judi Sheppard Missett
Jan 18, 2021
Judi Sheppard Missett, founder of Jazzercise, shares her inspiring journey from teaching dance to creating a revolutionary fitness program that combined fun and exercise. She reveals how Jazzercise broke new ground in the group fitness industry and discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood with her choreography career. Judi reflects on the program's evolution alongside the women's rights movement, emphasizing community and inclusivity. Her resilience in the face of skepticism paved the way for a $100 million legacy that continues to empower women today.
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Disguised Pregnancy
- In 1968, Judy disguised her pregnancy to maintain her choreography job at the Gaslight Club.
- Two days before giving birth, she was still choreographing, highlighting her dedication and the societal pressures of the time.
Birth of Jazzercise
- Judy's dance students, primarily young mothers, desired the toned physique of dancers but not the rigorous training.
- This realization sparked the idea for Jazzercise, catering to a new fitness demographic.
Defending Jazzercise
- Fellow dancers criticized Judy for "bastardizing" the art of dance with Jazzercise.
- Judy defended her approach, emphasizing its positive impact on women's well-being and dance appreciation.