Richard Simmons, born Milton Teagle Simmons, was a prominent fitness personality known for his weight-loss programs, flamboyant personality, humor, and heightened energy. His most famous works include a line of aerobics videos and television programs. Among his written works, the "Never Say Diet" book and its companion cookbook offer a glimpse into Simmons' unique approach to weight loss and healthy living.
A Partner, Not a Sequel
Simmons advises readers to see his "Never-Say-Diet" book as a partner to his "Never-Say-Diet," rather than a sequel. He playfully references the movie Frankenstein, noting that ""You know that Son of Frankenstein wasn't anything compared to Frankenstein"". This sets the tone for a book that complements his original ideas with new recipes, advice, and motivational stories.
Recipes and Culinary Quizzes
The book contains 101 recipes, some created by Simmons and others donated by friends who share their weight-loss stories. These recipes generally are simple, ranging from breakfasts like Eggs Florentine to desserts like peach cobbler. Before each section, readers are quizzed on their knowledge and tastes. For example, readers are asked ""A coupe is: a. a jazzy sports car; b. a dessert with ice cream; c. an attempt to overthrow a government"".
A Look Back at the Book's Reception
Reviews of Richard Simmons' "Never Say Diet" book are varied, reflecting the book's unique approach and Simmons' distinctive personality.
Inspirational and Amusing
Some readers found the book very inspirational, appreciating Simmons' humor and motivational style. One reviewer wrote, "Very inspirational! I know that people make fun of him, but I love this guy!". Others enjoyed the book's amusing writing and Simmons' life story, even if it didn't directly lead to weight loss. One reader shared, "I loved this book--because it was so cute and amusingly written… The book didn't help me lose weight, but reading Richard Simmons' life story was fun. He was so damn likeable… It gave me (false) hope. It made me laugh." The nostalgia factor also played a role for some, with one person noting the "retro feel" and "cute early 80s touches" of the cookbook.
Read also: The Richard Simmons Approach to Weight Loss
Effective Exercise and a Sad Note
One reader recounted using the exercises from the book for years and achieving a fit body. They expressed sadness at Simmons' recent passing, highlighting his positive impact. "I read this beautiful book when it first came out and did the exercises I learned from it every day for years. My body was so fit thanks to this precious little guy… I was heartbroken to hear of Richard’s recent passing… He did so much good down here." A poignant note found on Simmons' windshield, "Fat people die young. Please don't die," also resonated with some readers.
Bluntness and Basic Recipes
Some readers found Simmons' directness refreshing, especially in the context of 1980s diet culture. "Good, but if you are looking for a book that portrays the 'flowery and sweet' Richard Simmons, you will be grossly disappointed. This is Richard Simmons, circa 1980…he was MUCH more brash, a little profane, and very blunt. I found it refreshing." However, others noted that the recipes were extremely basic, with little butter, grease, or flavoring. "Furthermore, his recipes are extremely basic: no butter…no grease…little flavoring. Most everything he lists (save for his salad dressing recipes) have very little seasoning."
General Advice and the Diet Industry
Several reviewers appreciated the book's general advice about the dieting industry and the need to create a personalized "Live It" plan. Some found it innovative and applicable to the current diet craze. However, others felt that the information was not particularly new or specific, though the stretching exercises were considered helpful. "Good general info about how dieting industry is crazy and that you need to come up with your own 'Live It' plan. Not much specific help or new info (older book) but good stretching exercises."
Overview
Richard Simmons' "Never Say Diet" book offers a combination of low-calorie recipes, exercise recommendations, and Simmons' trademark philosophy and personality. While some found the recipes basic, the book's inspirational tone, motivational stories, and emphasis on creating a personalized plan resonated with many readers. It serves as a reminder of Simmons' enduring influence on the world of fitness and weight loss.
Read also: Discover Richard Simmons's impact
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