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Surge Desk

Jack LaLanne Dead at 96; Watch the Fitness Pioneer in Action [VIDEOS]

Jan 24, 2011 – 11:06 AM
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Torie Bosch Contributor

Gyms all over the country may want to observe a moment of silence today.

Jack LaLanne died Sunday at the age of 96.

LaLanne, "the godfather of fitness," used television to teach people about the importance of physical exercise. "The Jack LaLanne Show" debuted in San Francisco in 1951 and went nationwide in 1959. It remained on-air until 1985.

LaLanne was also famous for his many feats of strength, including, at the age of 60, swimming from Alcatraz Island to Fisherman's Wharf -- while tugging a 1,000-pound boat. Did we mention he was also handcuffed and shackled?

LaLanne and his wife, Elaine, who also appeared on many of his shows, taught millions the importance of staying fit and eating healthy for a long, strong life. His most recent book was called "Live Young Forever."

Surge Desk collects some highlights from the show that made LaLanne a star.

How to lift 1,000 pounds:


How to stop being so tired:


Fingertip pushups:


The effects of bad habits:


How to be a champion:



Of course, LaLanne's show wasn't the only reason for his fame. He just kept going, long after his show was canceled. Here he is at age 90.



And who can forget the Jack LaLanne Power Juicer?



More coverage from Surge Desk:
Trish Keenan, Lead Singer of Broadcast, Dead at 42: A Musical Tribute
Margaret Whiting Dead at 86; Her Hits [VIDEO]
Gerry Rafferty Dead at 63


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Filed under: Nation, Health, Surge Desk