Ventura Jazzercise Instructor Patty Bolland Retires After 45 Years

Patty Bolland, a beloved Jazzercise instructor from Ventura, officially retired after an impressive 45-year career. On October 8, 2023, she led a class of about 20 women at the Lemon Wood Mobile Home Park, demonstrating her signature enthusiasm and energy. At 72 years old, Bolland remains a prominent figure in the Jazzercise community, known for her uplifting spirit and dedication to fitness.

Participants like Janelle Fanslow, 77, from Camarillo, praised Bolland’s approach: “She’s always energetic, she’s always uplifting, she’s always smiling, she will never criticize. She doesn’t just say it, she demonstrates.” Bolland reflected on her long journey with Jazzercise, which has supported her through significant life events, including a battle with breast cancer and raising a family.

Jazzercise is a unique dance fitness program that combines aerobic exercise with strength training. Founded by Judi Sheppard Missett in 1969, it gained popularity during the 1980s and 1990s and has since evolved into a global fitness phenomenon. Bolland emphasized that her motivation to teach was never financial; instead, it was about maintaining her health and sharing her passion with others.

Despite officially retiring as a regular instructor in August, Bolland continued to teach substitute classes through the end of October. Her recent class showcased her enduring enthusiasm, as she energetically guided participants through routines set to songs like “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga and “Die With A Smile” featuring Bruno Mars.

Bolland’s decision to retire stemmed from a desire to spend more time with family and pursue activities like tennis and golf. She acknowledged the physical toll her career had taken: “I’m just wearing out. My knees hurt after running marathons, which impacts how I instruct now.” Despite this, she maintained a commitment to keeping her classes lively and accessible, adapting to the needs of her participants.

The emotional impact of Bolland’s retirement resonated with her long-time students. Lois Marcus, 73, from Camarillo, shared her sentiments, recalling how Bolland’s classes provided a much-needed boost after a long workday. “I was sad to see her stop, but I’m happy for her because she gets to do a lot of things she hasn’t been able to do,” Marcus said.

Another long-time participant, Angie Peck, 78, expressed appreciation for Bolland’s energetic teaching style and the sense of community fostered in her classes. Peck often welcomed new students, ensuring that everyone felt included in the vibrant atmosphere Bolland created.

Reflecting on her career, Bolland acknowledged the deep connections she formed with her students: “I went through breast cancer early on in my Jazzercise career and I’ve had other ladies who’ve done that or births and deaths and marriages. We’ve been through a lot together.”

As she steps away from her role, Bolland leaves behind a legacy of joy, fitness, and community engagement. Her journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the positive impact that dedicated instructors can have on their students’ lives.