Austin’s Fitness Journey: A Reflection on Consistency
Dennis Austin, with nearly four decades in the fitness world, is a testament to how consistency can truly yield results.
At 68 years old and a mother of two, Austin recently shared a striking comparison photo on social media that showcases her enduring presence in the industry. She juxtaposed images from her early days, specifically VHS cover shoots in the late 1980s, with a more recent cover for “Fit Over 50: Vitality for Life.”
In her Instagram post, she expressed, “Then and now!!!! Here I am in 1988. The ‘then’ photo comes from one of my first VHS cover shoots!! And the ‘now’ photo is from my recent ‘Fit Over 50: Vitality for Life’ magazine cover shoot!! So much fun!!” It’s clear she still has that same vibrant energy after all these years.
Austin looked fabulous in a classic white one-piece swimsuit that featured a front zipper, seemingly unchanged after over three decades.
“I have so many fantastic memories from my time in the fitness industry!!! And I feel such deep satisfaction because I absolutely love what I do!!” she added, showing genuine appreciation for her journey.
“And I want to thank everyone for their support over the years! You all keep me going!! Let’s celebrate longevity together!!! Love you all!!! Xoxoxo.”
Austin emphasized that her throwback post wasn’t merely about flaunting her past; it was intended to illustrate what consistency truly represents. She believes these photos serve as a reminder that lasting results come from daily and yearly efforts, rather than quick fixes or fleeting trends.
Austin also admitted to a sense of nostalgia. She has preserved many of her outfits from her early training days, which are now gaining new life through her daughters. “I have saved all my leotards from the ’80s and ’90s. I used to wear them in videos and TV shows,” she laughed. “I’m glad I kept it all. [my daughter] Katie loves wearing it. My other daughter, Kelly, loves wearing it too.” It seems her fashion choices are bridging generations.
For Austin, being active in one’s 60s is less about appearances and more about maintaining independence and vitality. “This is proof that I’m still doing it, even though I’m 68 years old now,” she reiterated. “All you have to do is keep doing it, keep working out. And for me, I think that’s really great. It’s nostalgic for me, and it emphasizes the importance of fitness in feeling good.” Ultimately, it’s about how one feels, she insists.
Health, in Austin’s view, takes precedence over all else, regardless of one’s financial situation. “I want to be healthy,” she said matter-of-factly. “If you have money, it doesn’t matter if you’re not healthy. And no matter who you are, you have to do something for yourself.”
She continues to advocate for movement, even if it’s just in small ways. “Did you know that just standing burns more calories than sitting?” Austin pointed out. She encourages people to be active every day, suggesting they walk around while on phone calls. “The more you move your body, the better your blood circulation will be, which will benefit your entire body.”
Her philosophy is further fortified by a career that has greatly influenced the home fitness landscape. Austin hosted the top exercise show on television for 24 years and sold over 25 million fitness tapes and DVDs, establishing herself as one of the most successful creators in this sphere.
