Gaiam Inks New Deal With Fitness Icon Richard Simmons

NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Gaiam, Inc., the leading distributor of lifestyle media, today announced an exclusive, multi-year relationship with renowned fitness personality Richard Simmons. The deal includes the production of a new infomercial for 2013, the right to produce new content for both DVD and digital distribution and the re-release of classic Richard Simmons workout programs.

With over 35 years of experience in the fitness industry, Simmons continues to motivate and inspire others with his enthusiastic personality and passion to help individuals lose weight and take control of their health and well-being. The new infomercial will focus on fun, dance inspired weight loss workouts choreographed to hit music, a digital version of his very successful FoodMover and healthy meal plan. 

"I have had the pleasure of working with Richard in the past and am thrilled to have the opportunity to build a partnership with him," said Bill Sondheim, president of Gaiam. 

"Richard works tirelessly to help both men and women of every demographic reach their fitness goals.  In fact, he is one of the few leaders in the fitness space to address the 'new to exercise' consumer by offering a weight loss system that is simple and non-intimidating, and of course, fun," he adds.     

"It is an honor to be partnering with Gaiam," said Richard Simmons.  "For all these years I have been trying to help people take better care of themselves.  Our country's health and well being is at a low.  People are having trouble dealing with their weight and self esteem.  It is not surprising that the danger of obesity in adults and children continues to rise. With these new programs I want to bring H.O.P.E. Health. Optimism. Passion. Energy.  These are elements people must have in order to achieve their goals and I will work for the rest of my life to help them get there."

"The opportunity to partner Richard Simmons with Gaiam brings together two of the world's most recognized brands in fitness and well being," said Richard's longtime manager Michael Catalano. "We look forward to many years of great programs."

About GAIAM
Gaiam, Inc. (Nasdaq: GAIA) is a leading producer and marketer of lifestyle media and fitness accessories. With a wide distribution network that consists of over 60,000 retail doors, close to 15,000 stores within stores, 5,600 media category management locations, a digital distribution platform and more than 10 million direct customers, Gaiam is dedicated to providing solutions for healthy and eco-conscious living. The company dominates the health and wellness category and releases non-theatrical programming focused on family entertainment and conscious media. For more information about Gaiam, please visit www.gaiam.com or call 1.800.869.3603.

Media Contact:
Lauren Aboulessan
Krupp Kommunications
(212) 886-6710
[email protected]

SOURCE Gaiam, Inc.