The fitness world is mourning the loss of legendary exercise pioneer and television personality Gilad Janklowicz, who passed away suddenly on June 9, 2026, at the age of 71.
Janklowicz’s family announced his death in a heartfelt statement shared on social media.
“We are devastated and shocked to announce the sudden passing of our beloved brother, friend, and inspiration to so many, Gilad Janklowicz,” the family wrote. “Words cannot express our grief right now. We will share more updates and details later as we process this immense loss. Thank you for your love and support.”
No cause of death has been released.
Known to millions as the energetic host of the groundbreaking fitness series Gilad’s Bodies in Motion, Janklowicz helped revolutionize home fitness programming. Launched in 1983 and filmed on the scenic beaches of Hawaii, the show became the first nationally syndicated fitness program filmed entirely on location. It later made television history as the first fitness-related show to air on ESPN, where it ran from 1985 to 1996.
Over the course of four decades, Janklowicz filmed approximately 600 episodes of Bodies in Motion, inspiring millions to embrace healthier lifestyles. In 2019, the program was officially recognized as the longest-running fitness television show in U.S. history.
Born in Israel on July 27, 1954, Janklowicz was a record-setting decathlete and Olympic hopeful before beginning his career in fitness. He served as a fitness instructor in the Israel Defense Forces and later moved to the United States to attend film school at University of California, Los Angeles.
Beyond Bodies in Motion, Janklowicz hosted several successful fitness programs, including Total Body Sculpt with Gilad and Total Body Sculpt Plus. He also expanded into entertainment, hosting the game show Gilad’s Minds in Motion.
Throughout his career, Janklowicz welcomed notable guests to his programs, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jack LaLanne, and former NFL quarterback Joe Theismann.
His contributions to fitness earned widespread recognition. In 2007, he was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame. He later received the prestigious “First in Fitness” Award and, in 2024, was honored with the Jack and Elaine LaLanne Inspirational Achievement Award for his decades of dedication to helping people live healthier lives.
Following news of his passing, tributes poured in from across the fitness community. Fitness icon Denise Austin expressed her sorrow on social media.
“I am in shock. My dear friend for almost 40 years. Gone way too soon,” Austin wrote. “We did ESPN together and we continued a close friendship. I pray for his family.”
For generations of viewers, Gilad Janklowicz was more than a fitness instructor—he was a source of motivation, positivity, and inspiration. His passion for health and wellness helped bring exercise into millions of homes and paved the way for the modern fitness industry.
As fans around the world remember his remarkable life and career, his impact on fitness television and healthy living will continue to inspire future generations.
Thank you, Gilad, for encouraging millions of people to move, stay healthy, and believe in themselves.
