Gilad Janklowicz Dead: ‘Bodies In Motion’ TV Fitness Pioneer Was 71

Gilad Janklowicz, a fitness instructor whose signature syndicated TV program Bodies In Motion brought daily exercise routines to viewers newly dazzled by the exercise and aerobics movement of the 1980s and ’90s, died Tuesday, June 9. He was 71 and lived in Hawaii.

His death was announced by Jewish Life Television, the North American TV network where Janklowicz’s program long anchored a morning programming block. Although a cause was not disclosed, JLTV described Janklowicz’s death as a “sudden passing.”

“A beloved household name, an exceptional athlete, and a cherished member of the JLTV family, Gilad leaves behind an indelible legacy that transformed the fitness landscape in North America and across the globe,” the announced said.

Born on July 27, 1954, in Israel, Janklowicz was a one-time Olympic hopeful in the decathlon, and dedicated his early years to track and field before serving as a fitness instructor in the Israel Defense Forces. He later moved to the United States to attend film school at UCLA.

In 1983, Janklowicz launched Bodies in Motion, the first nationally syndicated half-hour fitness show to be taped entirely on location: The picturesque beaches of his home of Hawaii, airing on ESPN from 1985 to 1996, and later moving to Discovery Fit and Health. Other series hosted by Janklowicz included Total Body Sculpt, Total Body Sculpt Plus and the game show Gilad’s Minds in Motion.

Known for its accessible approach to fitness for people of all ages, the Bodies In Motion program reached millions of viewers with precise instruction and an emphasis on keeping exercise simple. His programming aired extensively across North America and internationally, spanning continents from Europe to Asia, making him one of the most recognizable fitness personalities ever.

Over the course of his career, Janklowicz was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame, receiving the “First in Fitness” award for his historic achievement as the first creator to host a national fitness show on location. In 2024, his lifetime of impact was capped by receiving the Jack and Elaine LaLanne Inspirational Achievement Award, honoring his role in inspiring people to lead healthier lives.

His signature sign-off at the conclusion of his broadcasts was “Till next time, keep in motion.”

“We are absolutely heartbroken,” said Brad Pomerance, JLTV Executive Vice President. “Gilad was a force of nature – an incredible, singular talent who built an empire out of making people feel healthy, capable, and alive. But beyond the screen and the global brand, Gilad was a dear, deeply loyal friend. Losing his presence in our lives is devastating, and losing his friendship leaves a void that is truly impossible to fill. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time.”

JLTV will broadcast a special 12-hour marathon tribute on Monday, June 22, beginning at 6 a.m. ET, featuring classic episodes of Bodies in Motion and Total Body Sculpt, and highlighting “his incredible journey, his family, and his enduring spirit.”

Complete survivor information was not immediately available.