Les Mills: Olympian and Fitness Innovator
Les Mills, a renowned fitness expert and former Olympian from New Zealand, has passed away at the age of 91, according to his family.
In 1968, Mills and his late wife Colleen opened their first gym in Auckland, which eventually expanded into a nationwide chain.
The Les Mills International brand has gained global recognition for its choreographed workout programs set to music, including popular classes such as Body Pump and Body Combat.
Mills was an accomplished athlete who competed in shot put and discus at four Olympic Games. Beyond his athletic career, he also served as mayor of Auckland.
Mills' son Phillip, who co-founded Les Mills International alongside partner Jackie, building on his parents' gym legacy, reflected on his father's achievements.
"He achieved a huge amount in his life."
"And the common thread throughout – whether in fitness, politics or family life – was that he always wanted to help others.
"Dad was immensely strong, driven, and always cared deeply for the less advantaged."
"His spirit lives on in gym workouts around the world, continuing to help people fall in love with fitness."
Athletic and Political Career
Mills earned five Commonwealth Games medals, including a gold medal in discus at the 1966 Games held in Kingston, Jamaica.
Mills competed in the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.
In the 1990s, Mills shifted his focus to local politics, serving three terms as mayor of Auckland City.
He remained active in sports by coaching athletes, notably New Zealand discus thrower Beatrice Faumuina, who won the world title in 1997.
Honors and Legacy
In recognition of his contributions, Mills was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2002 for services to local government and sport. Earlier, in 1973, he was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for services to sport.
Nicki Nicol, CEO of the New Zealand Olympic Committee, paid tribute to Mills' impact on New Zealand sport.
"Les Mills set a standard for what it takes to represent New Zealand at the Olympic and Commonwealth Games."
"His place in New Zealand's Olympic history is firmly established and no doubt his legacy will continue to inspire."
