Richard Simmons, Fitness Expert and Advocate, testified before the Committee on Education and Labor at a hearing concerning childhood obesity and physical health and education on July 24, 2008.
Good for you! I can tell you it will build and build if you just keep going just keep pushing through it even just a little bit but consistency is everything your brain actually gets addicted to movement and eating better. I remember when I started to eat better in the beginning it was very tough but about three months later I went back and took a bite of a sweet and I almost spit it out. It tasted so bad. It was so overweight, but my body had been conditioned to that anyway I’m just trying to give you a word of encouragement. Just keep it going you can do it.
@@joeglennaz Yes, as Richard would say and sing on his REACH album (cassette), “You can do it, if you try.” 🤩 I will also take your advice. Such a caring and sincere comment. ♥️🫂🙋🏾♀️👸🏾 THANK YOU. 🏋🏾
@@drummersnare6276bruh. What? Only someone who hates themself would make this comment. Explain your reason for making the statement you made. Are you fat? Virgin? Bullied and lost their way? What? What’s up? Tell us. Because only someone who’s in their own personal battle would say something that childish and stupid. So gonna talk or walk?
@@jokingrudolf76 talk about ignorance of the English language. If you start a sentence with "as a black man....". What you say after that means that being black has something to do with what you say. No body says "As a black man I enjoy brushing my teeth" or "As a black man I feel it's important to pay my taxes on time". If you like brushing your teeth or paying your taxes, you shouldn't say what race you are. That is plain dumb..... You failed school.
Some of us poked fun at Richard Simmons through the 80's because of his flamboyant nature and atypical format of his show as exercise shows, at that time, were cast with men and women who were always in perfect physical shape. I realized in later years what he was really doing was making people feel better about themselves and motivating them to become healthier. This is the first time I've seen this speech and that was something. Top that! Way to go Rich, you did a hell of a job. 👍
How absolutely sad for you. Anyone with a brain could see what a genuine, authentic, passionate, experienced man he was about fitness!!! He was charismatic, fun, silly, inclusive, and such a joy to be around. EVERYONE who was interested in Richard Simmons knew his background, his history, his life's journey. What a courageous, precious, loving, soul who stood up to the bullies of this world, who made loving ourselves okay!!! He helped millions of people over the span of his lifetime, overweight, underweight, everyone with phycological bad body images, low self esteem. There will never be another Richard Simmons, he was one of a kind who had a purpose for all the pain he went through in his life!!! Thank God he chose to fulfill his destiny!!!! Thank you Richard, you are missed!!! ✨💖✨
As funny it is to see him be super flamboyant, its amazing to see someone who gives a fuck about the fact children and young adults as diabetics. God bless Richard Simmons.
It's amazing how he had the strength for so many years to be so positive and uplifting to other people because it sounds like he suffered when he was young.
It seems like people go one of two ways after they suffer. They either become motivated to ensure other people don't feel that way, or they become bitter and try to ensure other people DO feel that way.
He inspired millions of people to try harder, eat better, think before you consume and overall, live life more abundantly. Thank you, sweet Lord, for Richard.
People used to be brutal and merciless MERCILESS to this dear man, in my childhood. It was horrific to see. Toxic l0sers, they all were. Richard was always 100000000% superior and HE NEVER KNEW IT. My generation’s heart is ripped out that he has been taken Home to The Lord, but we are so rich and made more blessed BY HIS PRESENCE 🫶🏼
How can you not like this guy.He made a very valid point of fitness being confused with being a "Jock".Health is the key point of fitness.Great Speech Mr.Simmons. : )
HONESTLY. YES. The stereotype of the meathead on steroids and the supermodel with a super skinny waist are what's thrown America way out of proportion (pun intended). You don't HAVE to lift 200lb weights. You don't HAVE to run a full marathon. You don't HAVE to be as flexible as an Olympic gymnast. What matters is that you move your body in any way shape or form that most fun to you and that you feel happy in your own skin. :D
People used to be brutal and merciless MERCILESS to this dear man, in my childhood. It was horrific to see. Toxic l0sers, they all were. Richard was always 100000000% superior and HE NEVER KNEW IT. My generation’s heart is ripped out that he has been taken Home to The Lord, but we are so rich and made more blessed BY HIS PRESENCE 🫶🏼
I started to cry a little..I tried everything to lose weight... i jogged everyday, starved, fasted!..nothing...about a month ago...i started working out to my fathers old work out tape..sweatin to the oldies... i finally felt like i was having fun..i laugh when im working out. And now..i have lost two waist sizes...in one month! I also have changed my eating habbits and my portions. Thank you Richard. I feel alot better about myself
That's really what 60 SHOULD look like. So many people abuse themselves, unintentionally, with poor diet, sun damage, all the toxins from goop on the face (makeup, makeup remover, lotions, creams, etc.), smoking, drinking, etc. and then they think that looking bad is normal for an older adult. It's not!
RIP Richard, you were an Angel on Earth!! You've helped so many by impacting their lives and helping them feel less alone in their struggles. You dedicated your life to your cause and never strayed.I wish you peace in the stars! ❤
A compassionate, loving man whom was a millionaire for decades, but kept helping people when he certainly did not have to...what a man to do so much simply because he actually gave a shit... He was one of the good guys, period.
2024, Rest In Peace Richard....Your truly one of the few ppl in this world who can believe in person; like me; to be better and fit for my self... God Bless You 🙌 🙏
Wow! What an amazing example of what America should be. I was a jock for most of my life starting around sixth grade. Schools did not do enough for EVERY child in public school systems We all need hearts like Richard Simmons. He should’ve won a presidential medal of freedom. God bless this man’s eternal soul!
I remember when Richard had his own tv show in the 80's as well as his days when my mom use to watch him on General Hospital. He was a fitness icon for EVERYONE who had a heart of gold. He touched countless lives with his words of encouragement and incredible energy. May his legacy continue to live on. God bless.
His videos helped me. I was close to being kicked out of the army because of my body. And I tried their methods and they were not working. So out of desperation. I reached out to a friend who recommended Richard Simmons. Tapes. It was natural that I took it as a joke. But I was willing to try anything at this point in low and behold. I passed my PT test. And every PT test after. Thank you, Mr. Simmons. #Hooah
Richard Simmons is the model of dedication and passion. He practiced what he preached. He didn't do it for fame and wealth. I LOVE this man❤ You will never be forgotten Richard 🥹
Wow - I am in tears from his passion and his empathy. It's truly horrifying to me that today's children will not live as long as their parents. We have really lost our way.
He doesn't need em. XD Fitness is his entire life from the moment he wakes up to the moment he falls asleep and it will be till the day his heart stops beating for good. We desperately need more people like him in the world right now.
Sweatin to the Oldies is still one of my favorite work-outs after 30 years. This guy deserves respect. He has a true heart that is dedicated to the health of others. You can see his passion in his face and hear it in the emotion of his speech. He is all about love. And isn't the what it's all about anyway?
I just loved him as I sweat to the oldies in my bedroom in front of the tv years ago. What a kind man, he did a lot of good. I hope he remembered that. It’s not easy to be famous and sensitive and as kind as he was. How brave of him to stand up and say this!
That was powerful. I never realized how motivated and caring this man really is.. its too bad most people will never see past his short shorts and tank tops.
I think most people now adays finally do see his shining heart and soul. Homophobia and fat shaming are not acceptable anymore, and in large part we have Richard Simmons to thank for that. He helped so many people. I really love him. ❤
People trusted him because he was genuine and sincere. He wasn't in it for fame and fortune. He had a mission in life, and he fulfilled it. I loved watching him on television. He cried with those people. He made them feel loved and worthy of respect and dignity. There will never be another fitness trainer like him❤
Good bless Richard Simmons for everything he has done for men and women - children, teens and seniors. He is selfless. And for all the laughs and fun I have enjoyed watching and listening to him on Howard Stern. I hope he is well and I hope we will all get to see him soon!!! XOXO
This guy was a brilliant businessman. He provided an effective system and installed his personal message and influence of positive reinforcement and encouragement reaching everyone who followed his routine.
I love this man. It's always great when someone sincerely and genuinely stands up for what they believe in and try to help people out of love and kindness. We need more Richard Simmons in the world.
One can certainly both hear and feel how passionate he is about keeping everyone, young and old as fit as possible. Finding what makes exercise fun is what it's all about.
@@judyholland7236and definitely talk about it on their breaks about the kids who were always picked first and last. Pretty fg sad we experienced this. I hated it and I would say it definitely was a factor in my hating gym class and sports in general as a kid. Jerks. I hope this doesn’t happen in schools today.
July 24, 2018: Richard, you've accomplished more than Congress ever will. With three graduate degrees, I've finally realized that life is too short to spend it with haters and hypocrites. Joy and Good Health, Kate (Albuquerque)
I have always liked Richard Simmons. Never took him seriously, but enjoyed his passion for exercise. However I can now say I RESPECT Richard Simmons in a way that goes beyond just happy he helps people lose weight. He spoke from his heart and I heard every word.
I am a dance teacher and Richard Simmons is right on! I've taught elementary school through adult, and dancing truly is a fantastic way to engage people into fitness. Within three years my son shaved his one mile run time down from 14:41 to 5:56. And when asked how he accomplished such an incredible task, he replied, "That was nothing, try taking my mom's dance class!"
Richard was the original OG of weight loss awareness and promotion. His heart was bigger than he was at any size. Bless him, he was a national treasure. Thank you sir for the love and care all of those years. You saved MANY lives!!!!
Richard was a true advocate, his compassion and generosity was real. He devoted his life to make others feel better about themselves. He was a true champion and warrior.. Thank you Richard🎉😢 God bless!! RIP 🙏
GOD BLESS RICHARD SIMMONS!🙏🏼 What a man with a passion to the health and well being of our human bodies! Bodies that are the vessels our souls are placed in! His mission, his calling, brings tears to my eyes. I was one of those kids too. I've been up and down the weight scale all my life. I'm 61 and heavier than I was at 9 months pregnant. But, there's health issues there, not just poor eating and lack of exercise. Richard recently passed away, but his vision even now, inspires me to do what I HAVE to do to get healthy and set good examples for my grandchildren. Thank you God, for this wonderful man!
I have no idea which things I did and didn’t agree with this man on while he was alive but as for what he poured out his heart to say in this speech I just want to say a thank you for being brave enough to stand up for what you believe with such passion. May God bless and guide everyone you desired to help!
Pauly Shore does an amazing job on Richard Simmons in a short. They really should make a full length film on him. If Pauly Shore plays him, I would definitely watch it.
I loved ❤ this man in high school, and while I've backslid over the years health-wise, he is a man who will never be forgotten. His exercises, his books, his videos, even his music. My favorite song by him is I PRAY 🙏, and it showcased his heart for the Lord and his heart for others. Rest in Power and Peace, Richard. You were too beautiful for this world 🌍.
Agreed! Richard treated the studio like annyone else would treat an office. Not just a token class once a week, but taught at least two days a week. Each class was unique. New costumes, new songs, new jokes, and new words of encouragement. The personification of kindness and joy. I, too, hope Richard is continuing to live his best life in private. He deserves it 🙏🏼
My elementary school PE class played Sweatin' to the Oldies Richard Simmons tapes. My favorite classes! I was never good at sports either, but I did still know the importance of exercise. The Richard Simmons PE class days were the best because it didn't matter that I was a bit uncoordinated. I hated when we played team sports, I was so bad at all of them! Richard Simmons was such a treasure and helped so many people! He is so missed.
Dear Sweet Richard...you are and will be loved forever. Love you Richard. Thank you for all you did. I know you are on the other side helping souls. Much love boo....
This reminds me of Mr. Rogers addressing Congress in a very similar, yet completely different way. This almost brought me to tears. What a sweet, wonderful, amazing human being. I wish I could personally thank him for being such an inspiration and saving countless lives. Angels like him have a special place in heaven.
Richard you are remarkable...a true inspiration and so much passion and conviction for what you believe. The children of America and the world could not ask for a better role model and advocate. Good luck to you in all you do, I hope they sit up and pay attention to what you are saying before it's too late. xox
What a beautiful soul this man was. I wish I could have gotten the opportunity to meet him. I grew up watching the videos my granny had of his on our old VHS, and although I'm still quite plump today, I still admire this wonderful man's passion for helping others. RIP Mr. Simmons.
He spoke straight from the heart here. What an inspiration, what a positive role model, genuinely wanting people to be fit, not for appearance but for good health. RIP, Mr. Simmons.
Did he say he would run for office?!?! Richard Simmons for President 2024! We need someone to bring us together and who better than the person who has loved us while inviting us to love ourselves and each other! Our country needs Richard Simmons to continue his quest to help us move toward better health; physically, emotionally, and communally!
@@melindaroop1346 If you have never voted you are part of the problem. Electing a president isn't a popularity contest-we vote for the platform, we vote on the issues. People who choose not to vote are basically telling those of us-including Richard Simmons-whose rights are on the line if Trump wins that you don't give a s*** about us. So, thanks. We ended up with Trump in the first place because people were sitting out the vote for the 'conscience' sake. My conscience wouldn't allow me to sit out any election.
@@melindaroop1346I hope you make a choice to vote in the future, because whatever life you have now is in great part the freedom and democracy this country has! People in the past have been beaten and some died just for the chance to vote! Voting means you get to take part in what goes on in the country instead of letting others decide for you!
This reminds of the south park episode where Stan didn't vote and the whole town went nuts over it even though literally you're voting for a douche and a turd sandwich. Why aren't people smart enough to know your vote doesn't matter in the first place. Those mfs don't give a shit about you no matter what side of this shit bird you're on
I legit dropped down and did 30 pushups at the 3:00 mark, gonna do 30 more then 30 more till I can’t no more. This showed up at the right time in my feed. Thank you for all you did Mr. Simmons 🙏
What a beautiful person ❤ The world is a better place when people can be their authentic selves and Richard Simmons was a great example. He didn’t fit a standard mold. He was authentically Richard Simmons and what a lovely gift to share with the world.
GREAT JOB RICHARD! You are so loved by all and thank you for your determination to keep PE in school. And thank you for always putting a smile on my face! ♥
I don’t think I’ll ever see a person with such a genuine, accepting, caring heart as this man did. Guys like Richard Simmons and Mr Rogers are heroes of mine.
Richard you were always a gift of God. Unfortunately Father God needed you back in heaven.R.I.P. Now you are in another Realm where you are needed. You will always be Missed and Loved ❤😭😇🙏
America's beautiful gem of a caring person. RiP Richard, you were truly loved and respected by millions of people, who you inspired mentally and spiritually and assisted with their overall mental and physical health, God bless you and thank you! Sad thing is, it seems after he left the center stage our obesity became out of control in this country.
