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Fitness guru Richard Simmons gets New Orleans second-line send-off in his hometown

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Fitness guru Richard Simmons gets New Orleans second-line send-off in his hometown

Richard Simmons had his hometown “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” one last time Saturday.

Following a memorial mass at St. Louis Cathedral, family members, friends and fans of the New Orleans-born pop culture fitness guru — some wearing Simmons’ trademark tank top and shorts — engaged in a brief workout at the gates of Jackson Square.

They waved their arms and flailed in a freestyle swimming motion, as the ever-positive, ever-energized Simmons often did in his 1980s TV show and “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” workout videos.

Following a memorial mass at St. Louis Cathedral, family members, friends and fans of New Orleans-born pop culture fitness guru Richard Simmon…

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It was an appropriately joyous and out-loud send-off for a New Orleans native who preached the gospel of exercise and self-esteem in tank tops bedazzled with Swarovski crystals.

Simmons was found unresponsive on the bedroom floor of his Hollywood Hills home on July 13, the day after his 76th birthday. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ultimately attributed his death to complications from numerous falls, with heart disease a contributing factor.

He was buried in Los Angeles at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary, the final resting place for scores of celebrities ranging from Marilyn Monroe to Hugh Hefner to Truman Capote.

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His funeral in Los Angeles was small — only eight people attended, Simmons’ older brother revealed during Saturday’s eulogy.

“We made a promise to my brother that we would have a celebration of his life in his hometown,” Lenny Simmons said.

He made good on that promise Saturday.

Milton became ‘Richard’

With several hundred people in attendance at St. Louis Cathedral, Lenny Simmons opened the service with an 11-minute recounting of his younger brother’s personal and professional history.

Born Milton Teagle Simmons at Touro Infirmary Hospital on July 12, 1948, he was named after his uncle Milton, whose nickname was Dick. So young Milton’s parents called him “Dickie.”

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Exercise guru Richard Simmons, center, points out Carolyn Campbell, 22, left, and Amanda Borenstein, 22, right, after he made them come up on stage and exercise with him in front of the crowd at Harrah’s Casino in New Orleans in September 2008.

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The Simmons brothers attended St. Louis Cathedral Parochial School and its historic church, then Cor Jesu High School, which later merged with St. Aloysius to create Brother Martin High School.

In his youth, Milton was prone to overeating and weight gain. During his senior year at Cor Jesu in 1966, he considered joining the priesthood, but ultimately decided it wasn’t for him.

After graduating from Florida State University, he moved briefly to New York, then returned to New Orleans. He spent two years as a traveling cosmetics consultant. Along the way he adopted the more “professional” name Richard, based on his old “Dickie” nickname.

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He landed in Los Angeles in the early 1970s and worked as a waiter and mâitre d’ at an Italian restaurant in Beverly Hills called Derek’s. His outgoing personality and sense of humor attracted crowds.







Richard Simmons, through the years

Exercise guru Richard Simmons leads the crowd at Harrah’s Casino in stretching their muscles during a visit to New Orleans in September 2008.

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He also developed an interest in fitness. He opened an exercise studio, eventually named Slimmons, that welcomed and supported overweight patrons. Simmons himself lost more than 100 pounds.

A Hollywood producer offered him a recurring role as himself on the soap opera “General Hospital.”

From there, Simmons’ career took off. He launched the nationally syndicated “The Richard Simmons Show” in 1980. He wrote books and sold millions of VHS and DVD copies of his workout tapes. He was omnipresent on talk and game shows; he and David Letterman, especially, sustained a teasing banter for years. 

Simmons spent more than half the year traveling the country, meeting fans, teaching workout classes and promoting his products.

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“Was this what God had planned for him?” Lenny Simmons asked rhetorically. “Yes it was. Because God wanted him to help people, motivate people, encourage people to get healthy and lose weight, all by having fun.”

‘Sweating with the holies’

Simmons suddenly retreated from public life in 2014, leading to rampant speculation — including a podcast and TMZ series — about his health and safety. The retired star occasionally posted on social media, but otherwise spent the next decade living quietly in Beverly Hills with his Dalmatians and housekeepers.

Still, his death shocked fans. The headline of his obituary in The New York Times proclaimed him “the clown prince of fitness,” quoting a People magazine profile from 1981.

In his casket, “just like Clark Kent, underneath his beautiful clothing, he is wearing a tank top and shorts,” Lenny Simmons revealed during Saturday’s eulogy.

“We wanted to make sure that he was going to be in his normal costume that we all know and love to help the saints and the angels get into shape.”

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Friends and family gathered at St. Louis Cathedral to say goodbye to New Orleans-born health and fitness celebrity Richard Simmons Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024. After mass at the cathedral, a gathering of fans took part in a memorial workout followed by a brass band procession. (Staff photo by John McCusker, The Times-Picayune | NOLA.com)



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To laughter and applause, he concluded, “Richard Simmons will forever be sweating with the holies.”

In his homily, Father Pat Williams discussed how some people “always manage to bring a smile to our hearts. I think Richard was one of those people. It was hard not to smile in his presence.”

He continued, “I encourage you to cherish all those memories every time you see one of those videos.”

Following the eucharist, Richard Simmons’ recording of the original song “I Pray,” set to an uptempo club beat, pumped from the cathedral’s speakers.

Father Williams then prefaced the closing prayer with, “Well, you heard him — let us pray.”

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Outside the cathedral, the short workout session unfolded to a soundtrack of Jackson Square’s typical Saturday cacophony. A brass band then led a second-line procession past a Lucky Dog vendor and the square’s psychics and artists to Decatur Street.

Marchers waved blue commemorative fans decorated with the motto “I’m a FAN of Richard Simmons” and his silhouette.

At Toulouse Street, the band broke into the gospel standard “I’ll Fly Away.” Marchers occasionally shouted out Simmons-like affirmations: “Feel the burn!” “You are perfect!”

At Conti Street, the band fired up “You Are My Sunshine,” which Simmons certainly was to his many millions of fans.

The parade broke up on Bourbon Street outside Musical Legends Park, in front of statues of Fats Domino, Pete Fountain and Al Hirt.

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There would be no more sweatin’ to the oldies.

Following a memorial mass at St. Louis Cathedral, family members, friends and fans of New Orleans-born pop culture fitness guru Richard Simmon…

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This year marks the 75th birthday of Milton Teagle Simmons, better known to the world as fitness instructor and exercise icon Richard Simmons.

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Fitness

Sweat in Style: Exploring the Boom in the Exercise Fitness Apparels Market

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Sweat in Style: Exploring the Boom in the Exercise Fitness Apparels Market

WiseGuy Reports

A Market Pumped for Growth
The market size for exercise and fitness clothing was projected to reach USD 340.35 billion in 2023. It is anticipated that the market for exercise and fitness apparel would increase from 357.4 billion USD in 2024 to 528.5 billion USD in 2032. During the forecast period (2024-2032), the exercise fitness apparels market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR (growth rate) of approximately 5.01%.

Get a Free Sample File of Exercise Fitness Apparels Market Research Report @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request?id=552510

Shifting Trends Fueling the Demand

The Rise of Athleisure Athleisure, a blend of athletic and leisure wear, has been a game changer in the fitness apparel industry. Consumers now demand clothing that is versatile, stylish, and comfortable, suitable for both workouts and everyday wear. With celebrities and influencers endorsing fitness gear as a fashion trend, athleisure has taken center stage, appealing to a broader audience beyond gym-goers.

Wellness and Fitness as a Lifestyle The global pandemic acted as a catalyst, transforming how people perceive fitness and well-being. Home workouts, virtual fitness classes, and outdoor activities became popular, fueling the demand for quality exercise apparel. People are investing more in activewear that supports their fitness goals, enhances performance, and provides maximum comfort.

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Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices Today’s consumers are increasingly environmentally conscious, pushing brands to innovate in sustainable activewear. Companies are leveraging recycled and organic materials, adopting eco-friendly manufacturing processes, and creating products with reduced carbon footprints. This shift toward sustainability is not only a trend but also a necessity as brands aim to capture the environmentally aware segment of the market.

Key Companies in the Exercise Fitness Apparels Market Include:

Nike

Adidas

Lululemon Athletica

Under Armour

Puma

Columbia Sportswear

VF Corporation

Asics

Mizuno

New Balance

Anta Sports

Li Ning

Fila

361 Degrees

Kappa

Technological Innovations Transforming Activewear

Advancements in technology are revolutionizing fitness apparel. Moisture-wicking fabrics, odor-resistant materials, and compression wear that aids muscle recovery are just a few examples of how technology is enhancing performance. Furthermore, smart textiles equipped with sensors to monitor biometrics like heart rate and body temperature are slowly entering the market, catering to the growing demand for data-driven fitness experiences.

Read More About Exercise Fitness Apparels Market Report @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/exercise-fitness-apparels-market

The Impact of E-commerce and Social Media

E-commerce has become a significant distribution channel for exercise fitness apparel, making it easier than ever for consumers to browse and purchase products. Online platforms offer a wide variety of styles and brands, while social media plays a crucial role in shaping consumer preferences. Fitness influencers and brand ambassadors showcase the latest trends, making activewear more aspirational and accessible. Direct-to-consumer brands are also using digital marketing and e-commerce to gain traction, offering personalized experiences and convenient shopping.

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Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the positive outlook, the market faces challenges. Intense competition, fluctuating raw material prices, and the need for constant innovation can put pressure on brands. Moreover, meeting the demands for sustainability while maintaining affordability and performance quality is a balancing act that many companies are still navigating.

Future Outlook

The future of the exercise fitness apparels market looks promising, with several growth opportunities on the horizon. Expect to see more hybrid garments that blur the lines between fitness wear and everyday clothing, as well as further integration of smart technologies. Customization and personalization will become key focus areas, as consumers seek apparel that reflects their individual style and preferences.

Read Our Related Reports

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Table Tennis Shoes Market @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/table-tennis-shoes-market

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Sales +91 20 6912 2998

About WiseGuy Reports:

We Are One Of The World’s Largest Premium Market Research & Statistical Reports Centre

Wise Guy Reports is pleased to introduce itself as a leading provider of insightful market research solutions that adapt to the ever-changing demands of businesses around the globe. By offering comprehensive market intelligence, our company enables corporate organizations to make informed choices, drive growth, and stay ahead in competitive markets.

Integrity and ethical conduct are at the core of everything done within Wise Guy Reports. We ensure transparency, fairness, and integrity in all aspects of our business operations, including interactions with clients, partners, and stakeholders, by abiding by the highest ethical standards.

This release was published on openPR.

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Sweat Your Way to Rewards: Live4Well Revolutionizes Wellness with Innovative “Exercise-to-Earn” Ecosystem #Live4Well #VIVPASS #movetoearn #web3 #sports #globalsportsalliance #wellness #NFT

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Sweat Your Way to Rewards: Live4Well Revolutionizes Wellness with Innovative “Exercise-to-Earn” Ecosystem  #Live4Well #VIVPASS #movetoearn #web3 #sports #globalsportsalliance #wellness #NFT

HONG KONG SAR –
Media OutReach Newswire – 18 November 2024 – The past decade has witnessed a dramatic shift in consumer behavior, with online shopping becoming the norm, further accelerated by the pandemic. Reward programs have sprung up everywhere, incentivizing spending and fostering brand loyalty. The core of cashback is to encourage consumers to develop a habit of continuous shopping through rewards. This same logic is beginning to take root in the field of sports and health.

LIVE4WELL VIV PASS

LIVE4WELL VIV PASS

GYMetaverse, the innovative team behind the successful
Live4Well Genesis NFT collection, is disrupting the rewards landscape with the launch of its upgraded
VIV PASS program. This groundbreaking “move-to-earn” ecosystem incentivizes healthy habits, transforming sweat equity into tangible rewards. Live4Well envisions a positive feedback loop where exercise leads to better health, and better health leads to tangible benefits, realizing the concept of “health as wealth.”

Pioneering the “Fitness Mileage” Concept: Earn Rewards for an Active Lifestyle

This inclusive program is open to users worldwide with zero barriers to entry. In just minutes, users can download the
Live4Well mobile app and register for free access to the
VIV Pass ecosystem. Initially,
Sweat Points, the program’s reward currency, can be earned through three primary avenues:

(1)
Daily Exercise — Users accumulate points by tracking steps and calories burned, turning daily workouts into rewarding experiences.

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(2)
Competition Participation — Points are awarded for participating in designated sporting activities, simply by uploading proof of participation.

(3)
Health & Fitness Spending — Users can upload receipts for eligible purchases in the designated sports and wellness categories to earn additional Sweat Points.

Live4Well makes the benefits of exercise immediately tangible, converting effort into visible rewards. Accumulated
Sweat Points can be redeemed for a variety of prizes, including cash vouchers, fitness products, and exercise classes. The
Live4Well app also empowers users to track their fitness data and participate in engaging challenges.

Creating a Global Sharing Economy: A triple win for Users, Businesses, and the Industry

Live4Well’s vision extends beyond simply creating a health management platform. The “exercise-to-earn” concept fosters a mutually beneficial ecosystem:

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(1)
User Benefits
VIV PASS motivates individuals to adopt and maintain healthy exercise habits through a rewarding system.

(2)
Business Advantages The platform connects businesses with their target audience through community engagement and strategic partnerships, driving more effective product promotion.

(3)
Industry Transformation By creating a “move-to-earn” economy,
Live4Well stimulates consumer spending, transforming calorie expenditure into a quantifiable reward unit. This innovative approach empowers businesses to generate revenue, expand operations, and seamlessly connect the virtual and physical worlds.

Since its inception,
Live4Well’s fitness alliance ecosystem has continued to expand. With ongoing optimization of its operational framework, the
VIV PASS ecosystem provides easy access and a tiered membership system, fostering a comprehensive wellness mechanism which stimulates consumer engagement, and builds a thriving global sharing economy.

https://www.live4well.io/
https://x.com/live4well
https://www.facebook.com/live4well.io
https://www.instagram.com/live4well.io
https://www.youtube.com/@live4well

Hashtag: #Live4Well #VIVPASS #movetoearn #web3 #sports #globalsportsalliance #wellness #NFT

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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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What your grip strength says about your health — and exercises that will improve it

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What your grip strength says about your health — and exercises that will improve it

Want to know how healthy you are? There’s one health metric experts can look to for hints about everything from your cardiovascular risks to your brain health: grip strength, or how firmly you can hold on to something with your hand.

“There’s nothing about grip strength, per se, that makes it special,” except that it’s easy to measure, Mark Peterson, a University of Michigan professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation, tells Yahoo Life. Research also shows it’s an excellent predictor of how you’re doing overall.

So what does your grip strength say about you, and how can you improve it? Here’s what to know.

What is grip strength, and why does it matter?

Grip strength refers to how much force you can generate when you squeeze something in your hand, and experts look at it as a good way to gauge someone’s overall strength or weakness. If you’re finding it harder to twist open a jar of pasta sauce, for example, that’s a signal you may be losing some grip strength.

Grip strength is measured using a device called a dynamometer, which provides readings of how many kilograms of force someone generates when they compress its handle in their hand. Normal grip strength varies with factors including BMI and sex, and researchers are still debating exactly what indicates weak grip strength. But one study suggests that men’s grip strength is considered weak if they produce less than 26 kilograms (or 56 pounds) of force; for women, it’s less than 16 kilograms, or 35 pounds, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

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What grip strength indicates about overall strength also turns out to be an excellent predictor of other health status factors, research has found. People with weaker grip strength are more likely to develop heart disease, high blood pressure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and to die of any cause. Losing grip strength over time has also been linked to a greater risk of cognitive decline. Grip strength “has proven to be the strongest predictor of disease and mortality, [better] than virtually anything else,” says Peterson.

That’s because a loss of grip strength “is such a good marker of frailty,” Dr. Ardeshir Hashmi, section chief of the Center for Geriatric Medicine at Cleveland Clinic, tells Yahoo Life. When someone becomes frail due to a loss of muscle mass, they generally are aging more quickly and will fare worse against any health problems, he explains. And frailty isn’t a problem just for the elderly. “As early as the mid-40s, these changes can start happening, especially when we’re very sedentary,” says Hashmi.

The good news is that adopting exercise habits and good nutrition can restore strength to your grip, and everywhere else.

What’s the best way to improve grip strength?

It might be tempting to run out and buy the sort of hand-strengthener tool some athletes use to improve their grips. But Peterson says not to bother. “That’s just not going to help your heart, kidneys or brain,” he explains. Instead, Peterson advocates for resistance training, because strengthening your body overall has widespread benefits and will help prevent you from becoming frail. Hashmi agrees that strength training is important, but says that exercise to improve your cardiovascular fitness — such as cycling or walking — matters too, especially because it ensures good circulation.

Exercise combats frailty by building up a good reserve of muscle which, in turn, will make your body more resilient against aging and help it bounce back more quickly from injuries or illness. Hashmi adds that you also need to be getting the right nutrients — especially protein — to fuel muscle development.

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Getting stronger has also been linked to better brain health. “We found a link between low grip strength and cognitive deterioration and anxiety and depression, but I think it’s mostly that … people who are physically active are healthier from the top to the bottom, and that includes mental health and brain health,” says Peterson. “Exercise is one of the most potent treatments for prevention and help with mental health disorders like depression and anxiety,” he adds.

Exercises to try

The most important thing is to choose exercises you like and will do daily, even if only for 10 minutes, says Hashmi. Peterson recommends doing exercises that require two joints, such as squats or lunges. Exercises that “use the hip and knee are the most important because so much muscle exists in the lower extremities that you can get a lot of benefit from doing those,” he explains.

It’s worth talking to your doctor about what kinds of workouts will work best for you, but exercises the two experts do recommend include:

  • Swimming and water aerobics

  • Lifting weights, especially deadlifts or dumbbell lunges. You don’t need fancy equipment to do either. Try them at home while holding light dumbbells, milk jugs or cans.

Don’t focus so much on:

  • Bicep and chest workouts such as curls. These won’t do much for overall muscle tone and grip strength, Peterson says.

  • Hand-strengthening exercises. It’s fine to do them to strengthen your grip, but full-body workouts will have more important benefits for your health, experts say.

One upside of resistance training is that “strength happens really fast,” says Peterson. “Neurological changes happen virtually in the first week of exercise.”

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And, yes, your grip strength will likely also improve as a result of this exercise; experts say that matters as an indicator of more widespread internal changes that are benefiting your overall health. Hashmi likens it to athletes training during the preseason. “If you’re not putting [work] in now, something will catch you unawares,” he says.

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