Les Mills, the New Zealand athlete who transformed global fitness through his eponymous workout programmes, has died peacefully at the age of 91. His death was announced by his family on Monday.
Mills was a four-time Olympic representative in athletics, competing in the shot put and discus at the 1958, 1962, 1966 and 1970 Commonwealth Games. He won multiple national titles and later served as a coach and administrator. But it was his post-competitive career that cemented his legacy. In 1968, he opened a small gym in Auckland, from which grew Les Mills International, a fitness brand now operating in over 100 countries. The company’s group exercise classes, including BodyPump and BodyAttack, became a staple of health clubs worldwide, pioneering a model of choreographed, music-driven workouts.
Mills’ influence extended beyond commerce. He was a vocal advocate for physical education and community health, and his name became synonymous with accessible, high-energy fitness. New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins described him as “a national treasure who inspired millions to lead healthier lives”.
Mills is survived by his three children, all involved in the family business. A private funeral service will be held this week.
