The 1920s ushered in a new era for women, and with it came a different approach to physical fitness. The ideal female figure shifted away from the curvy silhouette of the previous decades toward a more slender, straight, and “boyish” look. This change in beauty standards, combined with a growing emphasis on health and vitality, encouraged women to embrace exercise in new and varied ways.
The Rise of Calisthenics and Stretching
A popular form of exercise for women in the 1920s was calisthenics. These were light, rhythmic exercises that focused on stretching, bending, and moving the body to improve grace and flexibility. Women would perform these routines in groups at gymnasiums or in the privacy of their own homes, often following instructional guides from magazines or books. The movements were designed to be gentle and were promoted as a way to achieve a slim figure without developing visible muscle.
The growing popularity of radio also brought exercise directly into the home. Morning radio programs would guide listeners through daily exercise routines, allowing women to participate in a synchronized national workout. These broadcasts made regular physical activity more accessible than ever before.
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The Appeal of Exercise Machines
The decade also saw the rise of new exercise technology designed for home use. Stationary bicycles and rowing machines became popular items for women seeking to stay fit indoors. These devices allowed for more vigorous, repetitive exercise in a private setting.
One of the most peculiar and popular machines of the era was the vibrating belt machine, such as the Vibro-Slim. This device consisted of a belt that was placed around the waist, hips, or other parts of the body. An electric motor would cause the belt to vibrate rapidly. The marketing for these machines claimed that they could “jiggle away” fat and tone muscles with no physical effort required from the user. People would simply stand in place while the machine did the work.
Activewear and Sporting Life
While some women exercised at home in their day dresses and heels, specialized clothing for physical activity was becoming more common. For gymnastics or gym classes, women and girls wore a standard uniform of a middy blouse—a loose, sailor-style top—paired with dark-colored bloomers, which were full, baggy shorts gathered at the knee.
Women also increasingly participated in sports. Tennis became a fashionable and popular activity, allowing for both exercise and social interaction. Swimming also grew in popularity, and the one-piece, form-fitting wool swimsuits of the era represented a significant move away from the cumbersome bathing costumes of the past. These sports offered women a way to engage in more vigorous physical activity while still adhering to the social norms of the time.
