Fitness legend Richard Simmons has passed away.
One of the true legends and icons of fitness Richard Simmons has passed away at 76 years old. News first broke of the fitness legend’s passing just a few days ago. Simmons passed on July 13, 2024.
Born Milton Teagle Simmons in New Orleans on July 12, 1948, the fitness icon had struggled with his health at a young age. Growing up obese, Richard Simmons would eventually make it his mission in life to drop to a healthy weight and maintain it throughout his life. Establishing his gym Slimmons in Beverly Hills in the late 1970s, Simmons would go on to become a fitness icon.
His fitness television program “The Richard Simmons Show” and his numerous exercise videos would propel him to superstardom in the 1980s.
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Richard Simmons raised concerns about his health just several months ago. Having been diagnosed with skin cancer, Simmons would take to social media to send an important message to his fans and followers. In a post to Facebook, Simmons posted some truly concerning words that set alarm bells off.
“I have some news to tell you. Please don’t be sad. I am … dying. Oh, I can see your faces now. The truth is we all are dying. Every day we live, we are getting closer to our death.”
With a statement like that, many of his fans and followers were put on edge. While these were some heavy words indeed, Richard Simmons was able to inject his usual brand of good humor and poignant advice into the post.
“Why am I telling you this? Because I want you to enjoy your life to the fullest every single day. Get up in the morning and look at the sky… count your blessings and enjoy.”
While Richard Simmons never disclosed if he had any health issues, he did make it his purpose to continue to deliver advice that could spark individuals to walk a healthier path. Simmons encouraged his followers to lead a life of health and happiness without any regrets. To do that, the fitness icon continued to emphasize a healthy diet as well as exercise.
“Every day that you are alive you have got to move. Whether it is standing or sitting you have got move your body every day. Start with stretching then cardio and strength.”
At this time the death of Richard Simmons has been stated as natural causes. However, it’s entirely possible that his passing was due to complications from his cancer diagnosis.
The Generation Iron team extends condolences to the family and friends of the fitness legend Richard Simmons.
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News and Editorial Writer at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube and Instagram.
