Ventura’s Patty Bolland Retires After 45 Years of Jazzercise

After a remarkable 45-year career in fitness, Ventura resident Patty Bolland officially retired from her role as a Jazzercise instructor. At 72 years old, Bolland has become a vibrant fixture in the community, leading classes filled with energy and enthusiasm. On October 8, 2023, she guided a group of approximately 20 women through a variety of dance, weightlifting, and stretching routines at the Lemon Wood Mobile Home Park in Ventura.

Bolland’s teaching style is characterized by her infectious positivity and commitment to her students. “Patty is always energetic, she’s always uplifting, she’s always smiling,” said Janelle Fanslow, 77, from Camarillo. “She doesn’t just say it, she demonstrates.” Over the years, Bolland has supported her students through significant life events, including her own battle with breast cancer.

Reflecting on her career, Bolland stated, “I can honestly tell you I was not in it for the money. Selfishly, it kept me in shape and I was able to share this love and this fitness with all my people.” Jazzercise, a dance fitness program that integrates aerobic and strength training, has been a pivotal part of her life since its inception by Judi Sheppard Missett in 1969. The program gained popularity during the 1980s and 1990s and has continued to thrive in various communities.

Although she officially retired as a regular instructor in August 2023, Bolland is still substituting through the end of October. She showcased her enduring skills during the recent class, effortlessly leading participants through routines set to songs such as “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga and “Die With A Smile” by Bruno Mars. Her encouragement resonated throughout the room as she shouted, “So low impact, keep those feet on the ground!”

The impact of Bolland’s retirement has been felt deeply by her students. Lois Marcus, 73, who attended Bolland’s classes for 20 years, expressed her mixed feelings. “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 noted. Bolland’s decision to retire stems from her desire to spend more time with family, travel, and pursue personal interests such as tennis and golf.

Chronic knee pain, a result of her marathon running, has also influenced her decision. “I’m just wearing out,” Bolland admitted. “I tried to keep it low impact. My classes are probably a little higher impact, but this is a very energetic, fun, great group of people.”

Another longtime student, Angie Peck, 78, echoed similar sentiments about Bolland’s influence, highlighting the camaraderie and community spirit fostered in her classes. “The people loved her,” Peck said, emphasizing the importance of Bolland’s welcoming approach to newcomers.

As Bolland transitions into retirement, she leaves behind a legacy of inspiration and connection. “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,” she reflected. “We’ve been through a lot together.”

With her retirement, Bolland looks forward to embracing new adventures while cherishing the memories and relationships built over decades in the Jazzercise community.