Gregg DeGuire/WireImageDancin' and sweatin' may not be the same for a few Richard Simmons fans.
Today marked the final classes at the fitness guru's exercise studio near Los Angeles.
Since opening in 1974, Slimmons Studio has seen thousands of fans walk through the doors for an unforgettable workout class. And while some were hoping to see Richard at the final classes today, the fitness star decided to mark the occasion with a heartfelt post on social media.
"I will not see you today because I am not very good at endings. I would just spend the whole time hugging and crying. My eyes would get puffy and red, my hair would get all frizzy and I'd be a mess," he wrote to his Facebook followers Saturday afternoon. "I cannot bear to be sad today. And you shouldn't be sad either. This should be a celebration of our forty-plus years together dancin' and sweatin'. So let's turn this ending into a new beginning."
He continued, "When I opened Slimmons in 1974, I simply couldn't wait to tell everyone that food could be healthy AND delicious or that exercise could be fun! I worked my little striped shorts off to spread the message that you must move your body every day, that portion size matters and that while others may not always be kind to you, you must be kind to yourself."
He would also spread the message in malls, talk shows, news segments or even convention halls.
For those wondering what Richard is up to today, the "Sweating to the Oldies" star told followers that he is doing the things he wants to do.
"I am being kind to myself, and putting myself first. I am making changes and taking time to do the things I want to do. Please know that I am in good health and I am happy," he explained. "No one has ever been able to tell me what to do and the same is true today. I am still independent, determined and opinionated. I simply am making a new beginning for myself—quietly and in my very own special way."
He concluded, "Be kind to one another, be kind to your body and be kind to yourself. I love you."