AUCKLAND, NZ: The world of fitness is mourning the loss of a true pioneer, Les Mills, the New Zealand Olympian whose humble Auckland gym blossomed into an international phenomenon. Mills passed away peacefully at the age of 91, leaving an indelible mark on global health and wellbeing through his eponymous fitness empire.
His journey began with an unwavering passion for athletics, representing New Zealand at four Olympic Games and three Commonwealth Games during a distinguished career in shot put and discus. Yet, it was his vision to make fitness accessible and engaging that truly cemented his legacy, revolutionising how millions worldwide experience exercise.
From Olympic Arena to Fitness Frontier
Born in Auckland in 1934, Phillip T "Les" Mills first made his name in the competitive sporting arena. His Olympic journey began in Melbourne in 1956, competing as a discus thrower. He continued to represent New Zealand with distinction at the Rome (1960), Tokyo (1964), and Mexico City (1968) Games, also securing a silver medal in the shot put at the 1966 Commonwealth Games in Kingston, Jamaica, and a bronze in the same event four years later in Edinburgh. His athletic prowess was a testament to his dedication and commitment, qualities he would later infuse into his entrepreneurial endeavours.
After retiring from competitive sport, Mills channelled his energy into a new venture: opening a gym in Auckland in 1968. At a time when gyms were often seen as intimidating spaces for serious bodybuilders, Mills envisioned something different. He wanted to create a welcoming environment where people of all ages and fitness levels could achieve their health goals. This philosophy laid the groundwork for what would become a global brand.
The Birth of a Global Phenomenon
The real revolution began in the early 1980s when Les and his son Phillip, a former Olympian hurdler, started experimenting with choreographed group fitness classes. They noticed the popularity of aerobics and saw an opportunity to bring structure, energy, and music to group exercise. This innovative approach led to the creation of iconic programmes like BODYPUMP™, an original barbell class that quickly gained traction. These programmes, featuring pre-choreographed routines set to popular music, became incredibly popular, making exercise fun and motivating for participants.
The Les Mills brand expanded rapidly throughout New Zealand and then across the Tasman, with Australian gyms quickly adopting the high-energy classes. From there, it branched out into Asia, Europe, and North America, becoming a global juggernaut. Today, Les Mills programmes are taught by certified instructors in thousands of gyms and health clubs in more than 100 countries, profoundly impacting the lives of millions. ABC News Australia reported that the company's reach is truly international, solidifying its status as a major player in the global fitness industry.
A Family Business and Enduring Legacy
The family aspect has always been central to the Les Mills story. His son Phillip took over the leadership of the international business, while daughter Jackie remains deeply involved. Even in his later years, Les Mills remained an inspirational figure, still actively involved in the company and a regular sight at their Auckland headquarters. His commitment to fitness and his unwavering belief in the power of exercise to transform lives never waned. The business, despite its global scale, retains a strong sense of its New Zealand origins and family values.
Les Mills' passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure. The countless individuals who have found strength, health, and community through his programmes are a testament to his vision. His pioneering spirit transformed fitness from an individual pursuit into a shared, exhilarating experience, leaving an indelible mark on how the world stays active. The fitness world has lost a titan, but his inspiration will continue to motivate generations to come.
