Tag Archives: Sweatin’ to the Oldies

Richard Simmons Helps Ellen Producer Lose More than 150 Pounds

Image via Ellen

Say what you want about Richard Simmons, but when it comes to providing people with the motivation, inspiration and the love to lose weight and take control of their health, there is no one like the tanned, Sweatin’ to the Oldies guru in short-shorts.

Last year after Richard was a guest on Ellen, he reached out to one of the show’s producers who was severely overweight and desperate for some help.

Through a series of emails, phone calls and meetings, Richard helped to transform this young man from an obese and lethargic individual to an energetic and trim young chap. In fact, David lost 159 pounds with the help of Richard.

The two recently talked with Ellen about David’s transformation and weight loss journey.

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Richard Simmons Still a Force in Fitness

Richard Simmons celebrated his 62nd birthday this year. Most people are ready to retire by that age, and Richard Simmons is one of the few who could easily afford to. What keeps him working is his flamboyant energy and love for his fans. I realize why he’s the butt of so many jokes, but let’s be realistic. A man of that caliber deserves a little bit of respect. I personally find his enthusiasm to be over the top, but for the millions of people he has inspired to lose weight, he is the perfect motivator. Although he’s not often seen in the spotlight anymore, he’s still a big presence in the industry today running his empire behind the scenes.

On our journey to fitness, we all must take slightly different paths. Personality type, age, lifestyle and genetics will inevitably affect which path you take. Not everyone responds well to the kick-ass persona of fitness gurus like Jillian Michaels. Some people just want to be told that they are beautiful and that they can do it. Lots of smiling and positive reinforcement works wonders for motivating the masses. (more…)